Parents often ask us, "What's the key to getting into a top college?" or "How can my child be successful in life?" Of course, there are many factors at play, but our answer consistently points to one fundamental trait: a strong work ethic.
Whether it was Michael Jordan cut from his high school basketball team, Dr. Seuss with 27 book rejections, or Thomas Edison who famously said “I have not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”, it’s a testament to a universal truth: success is often the result of persistent effort rather than innate talent alone.
But how do you actually instill a work ethic?
Psychologist Carol Dweck's research on the "growth mindset" provides valuable insights into fostering a strong work ethic. Here are key strategies you can implement today:
- Praise effort, not just ability: Instead of saying "You're so smart!", try "I'm proud of how hard you worked on this problem." and use analogies they understand: "Your brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets."
- Emphasize measurable growth and improvement: Regularly point out progress: "Your free throws have really improved since last month. That extra practice is paying off!"
- Encourage embracing challenges: When your child faces a difficult task, say "This looks tough, but it's a great opportunity to stretch your abilities." Model it yourself, too: "I struggled with this new software at work, but I'm excited about what I'll be able to do once I master it."
- Celebrate mistakes as learning opportunities: Learning is a process, and grades don’t need to be the only goal. When your child makes a mistake, respond with "What can we learn from this?" or "What can we try differently next time?"
The Power of Environment
The most effective way to develop a strong work ethic is to surround yourself with people who embody it. Let me tell you about my co-founder Alec, a master of the grind:
- Graduated in the top 1% of his class of 250 at Harvard-Westlake, one of the most competitive high schools in the country
- As a freshman at Stanford, conducted research for Stanford's GPS lab alongside Ph.D. students, demonstrating his ability to work at an advanced level early in his academic career
- Won countless academic awards and even an award from NASA; got his research published and presented to Lockheed Martin showcasing his commitment to excellence across various subjects
Did I mention that he’s a licensed pilot who flies planes too?!?!
What it looks like to be "on vacation" with Alec
Working alongside Alec (literally) inspires me daily to push harder and dig deeper, and that feeling is exactly what we strive to provide for your children through our carefully selected mentors at Curious Cardinals.
Next Steps
One of my current mentors, Alexa von Tobel, recently shared with me a powerful mantra: "L-I-T-T-P: Lean Into The Pain!" This encapsulates the idea that we should embrace challenges, for they are the stepping stones to growth and achievement.
We understand that as a parent, encouraging your child to work harder can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. The last thing you want is for your guidance to turn into nagging.
This is where Curious Cardinals comes in. Our approach is simple yet effective: we match your child with a mentor who will not only hold them accountable but also model the behavior of a strong work ethic.
By bringing in an external influence — a near-peer mentor who embodies the qualities of hard work and perseverance — we can inspire your child in ways that complement your parenting. No more nagging from you; let us do that work.
This could be you and Alec
Now's the time to schedule your child started with a mentor who will help model the hard work ethic to help make them successful. Book your time to speak with a mentor below.
All the best,
Audrey and the Curious Cardinals team
