In the context of school, we’ve been talking lately about work ethic and accountability.
You’ve been a little too reluctant, passive, and combative about getting your homework done, often blaming everyone else for what’s wrong with the homework or why some of the problems aren’t clicking for you. Not unlike when you were a baby, Mom and I have realized that schedules matter and that getting you on one would be key to your success. We’ve reset the timing so there’s less optionality around when or whether homework happens, while also considering when you have the energy and a good attitude to be productive. Of course, homework is also a new reality as you climb the grades. The work gets harder and more voluminous. We’ll help be your pace setters!
While you haven’t been as academically inclined, you’ve shown more interest in doing some hard work outside. Maybe that’s a sign of things to come? It’s almost Christmas lights season, and you volunteered to go on the roof. Instead of hanging lights, I let you and Eliza go up on the least consequential backside of the roof, above the dining room, to remove some moss and spread baking soda for moss control. You were both super comfortable up there, maybe a little too comfortable. You pleaded for more time when I told you the job was done and it was time to come down. Afterward, I let you stay on the ladder to help clean the gutters for an additional $10 in allowance.
The next day, it was my turn to go up on the much taller roof at the cabin to brush off heaps of tree debris, wash the skylights, and spread moss control. Fresh off your roof experience, you begged to come up with me, but that was just a little too much danger for one weekend. When I said no, you argued and complained, which I paid only slight attention to, as I was more focused on my own balance and safety while walking on the shingles. We did allow you to climb the ladder to bring me cleaning supplies, so you got a little taste of the view.
After that taste of heights and additional income, you’ve become fixated on starting your own business and have been considering some combination of lawn mowing, roof treatment, gutter cleaning, and dog poop pickup. My guess is that you’ll stick closer to the ground with lawn care before taking on anything else. I’ve asked you to work on a business plan that includes your services, supply costs, and rates. So far, you’ve designed a business card on Canva, which is a good enough start.
While you wait for business to get going, you’ve put some work into building a fort near the cabin. After some pruning, you’ve created a nice pad for you and Eliza to hang out with your friends. That’s a good solution while we determine whether we can build a garage with a proper loft for you to call your own. Maybe you can contribute to the build with your future earnings?
I’m glad to see you so productive and motivated. Now, just channel a little of that energy back into the classroom. You’ll need the mental skills to apply to your business, even if it involves working with your hands.
Love,
Dad