Help Them Discover Identity Before Career

One of the greatest gifts parents can give during senior year is patience in decision-making.

Students can sometimes choose their major based on the dollars earned per degree or on what their friends are doing. Sometimes, they feel compelled to pick something because that’s what their parents are asking. Haste tastes sweet until decisions are made in a rush and regret sets in.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Before students can select a career path, they need to understand who they are.

Point your teen to career aptitude surveys, personality profiles, and heartfelt introspection.

Ask them questions like:

• If you weren’t worried about money, what would you do?

• What types of problems do you love to solve?

• What strengths do you have that make you feel confident?

Talk through their strengths. Share your thoughts, but don’t let them define what strengths should be considered. Every successful career will not look the same. Success is when someone’s gifts meet opportunities and purpose.

Pray through the decision process. Allow mentors and teachers to speak into their lives. Allow your teen to feel unsure without letting guilt rub up against it.

Changing their mind may mean thousands of dollars and lost semesters. However, allowing time to think through your decision is smart, not procrastination.

You are not here to live life through your student.

You’re here to guide them into who God created them to be so they can go do what they were created for.

Dear Parents of Future High School Graduates,

Does it feel like your house is perched on the edge of change? Senior year is exciting and full of unknowns. It’s paved with BIG decisions and even bigger emotions. As your teen prepares to launch into adulthood, you may wonder where that fits your role as a parent.

Your role is not being eliminated — it’s being transformed.

Your Next Big Step by Sean Gibson will walk with you through this season of life. College preparation, financial management, spiritual readiness, and mentorship. This book will equip you to lead your teenager with wisdom, clarity, and confidence.

You are preparing them for more than graduation. You are preparing them for life.

Walk with your student and get them off to a good start. Get your copy today on Amazon: https://a.co/d/03jx6ICf