- Model what it means to
have a sense of purpose in life.
- Limit TV, computer, and
telephone time. Encourage your children to use that time
to develop and pursue their own interests.
- Have each family member
list five things he or she is passionate about and discuss.
- Listen to your kids when
they talk about their dreams. Ask how you can help -
get excited.
- Give your children opportunities
to find meaning in ways that are consistent with your
family's values.
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- Encourage students to write
down their dreams and goals, both short-term and long-term.
- Help students to see a
purpose in everything they're learning in school.
- Have students read books
and stories that tell about difficulties overcome and
dreams achieved.
- Give students opportunities
to reflect on and shape their own future.
- Include service learning
as part of the regular school curriculum.
- Draw connections between
classroom learning and significant opportunities, needs,
and issues in the world.
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- Involve youth in volunteer activities. Recognize their
skills and accomplishments.
- Invite young people you know to tell you about their
dreams. Be a mentor for youth whose dreams are related
to your own life's purpose and areas of expertise.
- Teach neighborhoods, congregations, and civic organizations
how to involve youth in service efforts.
- Highlight community members who have contributed to
community life in significant ways.
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- With your youth group,
discuss the great questions of life: Why was I born?
Why am I here?
- Speak explicitly to kids
about creating meaning in their lives and how that translates
into daily activities, career choices, relationships,
behaviors, etc.
- Encourage young people
to question and develop their own values.
- Use religious education
classes, sermons, and homilies to emphasize the importance
of finding meaning and purpose in life.
- Help children and teens
identify, nurture, and celebrate their gifts.
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