We Don’t Own Our Kids: Why Moms & Dads Should Think of Parenting As a Lease Parenting

Dawn Taylor
4 years ago

My kids are growing. Fast. The oldest is 29 and the youngest is 14. And while I’ll always be their mom, I don’t own them. They are each unique and I played a part in who they are, for good and bad. Once they become adults, it’s their life to live. 

When they were younger I spent far too much time trying to tell them who to be and what to be. More time should’ve been spent asking who they are and want to be. It’s gotten better as they grow, but I fell into the trap of trying to put my expectations on them. 

In the last few years, I’ve improved. I support them, I advise them, I advocate for them when I think it’s necessary. But mostly I just have their backs. Their backs, as they make their own decisions and plans.

Our kids need us to believe in them as capable, responsible humans, and we as parents need to trust that they own their hearts and souls, and we are simply there for their journeys. 

I love them wholeheartedly and when my lease is up, I hope the damage is minimal. And that my investment in them was worth it.

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Comments (6)

Mike Prochaska
I love this 💖💖💖💖💖
Dieter Schmitz
Dawn Taylor this is spot-on! Parenting is a blessing, but moms and dads need to step aside and let their flowers bloom.
Dawn Taylor
YES!! Dieter Schmitz so many wrap themselves up in their kids!! I am sad how fast it goes, but happy they are blooming!!
Elisa Schmitz
You are so so right, Dawn Taylor ! I love your perspective on parenting, thank you!
Dawn Taylor
Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds thank you!! I love having this wonderful platform :)
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