Children are just a younger version of us and still they are so different from us emotionally as well. Mentally and physically is obvious, but it is so fascinating that they feel things differently!
That is because:
1. They have less biases
2. They rarely over-think
3. They are curious and open to new things.
4. They enjoy the little things
5. They have inherently good self-image, unless tarnished by someone’s comments.
6. They forgive easily
Read that again.
Don’t you think the things mentioned above can be altered to an extent in an adult’s life? Let us discuss those factors one at a time.
“Children have an open and unbiased thinking which leads to a happier life.”
As we grow up we are programed by our parents, teachers, peers and even by the society to hold biases against particular things, religions or even entire cultures. This shapes our beliefs as we grow into adults. We avoid and judge a particular kind of people or group of people and we develop negative emotions towards them. These biases affect our mentality and leads us to live a constricted life. An open mind invites new experiences and happiness. Whereas tunnel vision makes our life open to limited experiences only. Children on the other hand, have open and unbiased thinking which leads to a happier life.
If you still feel constricted, tensed uncomfortable, try having an open and more kind approach towards others. Reflect on yourself and your thoughts as well. Maybe you will get an answer.
Children, especially those who are not yet bullied by peers or compared with their siblings or other children by their parents, tend to have a good self image. A good self image leads to a happier state of mind, whereas if we have low self-esteem it affects many areas of our life including our mental health and confidence.
“They tend to have good self image, don’t assume things by themselves and believe whatever they are told happily”
Children don’t have a habit of overthinking, So they don’t over assess others peoples actions and this in turn gives them time for other productive and good activities. Overthinking also leads to dysfunctional belief systems. For example as an adult if my friend doesn’t call me on the day we are about to meet, I might assume that she might be angry with me or she might be unwell. There can be numerous thoughts which can worry me if my friend doesn’t call me but a kid’s mind is different. They don’t assume things by themselves and believe whatever they are told happily. Apart from this they forgive easily, which leads to better mental health of their own and forms better friendships and relationships.
“Being open to new experiences and the inherent curiosity keeps them rejuvenated”
Lastly, they’re curious and open to new experiences and this keeps them engaged and happy. I know that as adults, we know the way of things mostly so we might not have the same curiosity as a child. For example, for a child even learning to play a simple game like hide and seek can be an interesting thing but as an adult I have played it so many times in my childhood, because of it’s repetitions and simplicity my curiosity would not be the same level as that of a child. For this thing what an adult can do is that he or she can try new experiences like travelling, trying out new activities, reading good books, spending time with nature and learning new things (like making soaps or painting) which unravel your curiosity and gives you a feeling or rejuvenation. It also decreases the stress of a monotonous lifestyle.
What are the other things that we can learn from children? Let me know in the comments!
Nitika Mehra, M.A. in Clinical Psychology, is a psychologist and emotional wellness expert. She is dedicated to highlighting the role of mental health in fostering happiness, fulfillment, and overall wellness and spreading awareness about the importance of mental health and the methods of it’s management.
Currently Nitika is working as a school counselor in East Point School, Delhi and also provides online counseling on platforms like GoMentors. She has diverse work experience in the field of mental health and education and aspires to bring about a positive change in the lives of people whom she comes across. She also has a personal blog which promotes mental wellness and overall wellbeing. She tries to be a part of social work sector by donating blood regularly and volunteering for NGOs. Read More >>
For counseling appointments Nitika can be reached at:
Email: nmehra997@gmail.com
Phone: +91-9721208555
