Change the narrative

I recently listened to a YouTube video stating that we inadvertently install a negative narrative in our child’s mind by using phrases like “we can’t afford it”, or “it costs too much” causing children to grow up with a lack mentality. It’s subtle and we don’t really think about it. I know I didn’t. That was the narrative I grew up with and still deal with.

I have so many items, mostly kitchen gadgets, I’ve owned for years and continue to use even though I’m not really happy with them. I find that there are much better versions of many of these items, but I’ve never upgraded because I didn’t think I should spend the money. I should just “make do.” This “lack mentality” stems from the environment I grew up in. A side effect of having parents who grew up during the depression.

Children don’t need to know the family’s financial status. Next time, when they ask for something, perhaps just say “No, not this time.”