Four Fabulous Benefits of Self-Expression
1. Builds Confidence
When a child discovers an activity that he or she loves, they will want to practice that activity as much as possible. This will lead to mastery and a huge boost of confidence for the child. Learning how to work hard toward something that they cares about, and seeing the positive results of that hard work, will bestow your child with the confidence to pursue all types of new things.
2. Reminder That Everyone is Different
During the childhood years, there can be so much pressure to do and like the same things as everyone else. But, as adults, we now know that just because the coolest girl in school loves gymnastics, it doesn’t mean that everyone else needs to like or be good at gymnastics, too. When your child has the chance to explore his own likes and dislikes, discover activities that he excels at, and become confident in those gifts, the world begins to become a broader and more accepting place in his own mind.
3. Creates Unique Personal Goals
How many times have we come across a grown adult who has only just begun to consider doing something with his life that he actually cares about? When a child has the opportunity to express and explore the things that come most naturally, he will have a head start on discovering his hidden talents and sources for future success.
4. Reinforces Well-Rounded Development
The school system as we know it does not place much emphasis on development of creative outlets for students, and if a student does not fit in to excelling at either academics or sports, he or she runs the risk of feeling very left out. And, even if your child loves something that is practiced in the school system, like sports, for example, he or she may not make the team. Unfortunately, these educational models do not do enough to foster the development of a well-rounded individual. Children, whether at home or in the classroom, need the opportunity to explore and develop in all areas, and finding a unique form of self-expression will allow them to do so.
Keep in mind that having some self-expression doesn't necessarily mean having talent, being good at something or excelling at it in any way. It just means DOING IT! Just for the sake of doing it.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? How are you feeling today? Do you already have an outlet for self-expression? Is there something new you would like to try? Or is there something you used to do a lot that you really enjoyed but you haven't done for a long time? Do you express yourself enough? Could some of these 'benefits' benefit you?
Don't give up! There is hope for depression.
