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As parents, we are deeply invested in our child’s future college journey. We want to make sure they get the right support and motivation from us and care about their success.
When planning to go to college, things can be busy and, often, overwhelming. I often talk to parents who are tired of managing their work life, personal life and their children’s college application process.
However, with good planning, it doesn’t have to be this way. Here are four tips from my experience that can help you lead your child to college success without compromising everything else in your life.
1. Understand the importance of family time
First, before you start taking the necessary steps to create more balance in your life, it’s important to understand the difference between your family and work. While work time can be measured financially, family time has an irreplaceable value.
Your child’s high school years are flying by, and soon, he’ll be off to college, visiting only for the holidays or when he needs his laundry done. Appreciate these moments and make the most of your time with them. Applying to college is a major milestone in their lives and the gateway to their adult life, so you definitely want to make it a priority.
These times, daily dinners, or short trips will allow you to not only discuss college planning but also look at your child’s interests and core skills – something that should be authentically represented in their college applications.
Related: Coaching and Parenting Have Similar Goals But It’s a Big Mistake to Do It the Same Way
2. Make college application support non-negotiable
In the business world, systematic planning is critical to success, and the same principle applies to balancing your work and personal life. Set specific days and times for both work and personal activities and stick to them. This includes setting aside time for family, not just work. For parents of college-aged teens, this means scheduling time to help with their college applications. Work with your child to set reasonable goals.
Fortunately, they can handle most of it but you have to be there for the big decisions and support. For example, you can let them research college options and set aside an hour after dinner to review together. The following week, review the admissions requirements and address each section in subsequent weeks.
Put everything on your calendar to avoid the chaos of inappropriate deadlines. The key is to start early and tackle each part slowly so you don’t miss out again a lot of work.
During this dedicated college application period, it’s important to eliminate all distractions. No phone calls or emails — even if this means keeping your phone in a separate room to break the habit we have of checking every notification. Being fully present to help your child or simply listen should be a priority. Prioritize this communication with the same importance as your professional commitment. This approach will strengthen your relationship with your child and ensure that they feel valued and supported on this amazing journey.
3. Send others and empower others
As a leader or entrepreneur, you know how important delegation is in managing your work. This principle of empowerment should extend beyond your field of work. When it comes to the college application process, consider utilizing the skills of experienced admissions counselors.
These professionals, like those at Quad Education, can go the extra mile, making the process less stressful for you and your child. If you feel out of your depth helping your child get into schools like Harvard and Stanford, having advisors who have been on those admissions committees can take some of the pressure off of using their first expertise.
This way, you can always participate in the process without being overwhelmed by technical things. You can focus on providing emotional support and guidance while experts handle the intricacies of essay writing, extracurricular profile building and interview preparation. Dividing and conquering this way is a win-win: your child gets the best support, and you have more time to devote to your work without sacrificing family obligations.
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4. Set aside time for personal recreation
Helping your child with college applications can bring up a lot of mixed emotions. On the other hand, you may face the pressure of wanting your child to succeed and get into the school of their dreams. On the other hand, there is the painful realization that your child is growing up and becoming independent. These feelings can be overwhelming, especially when added to an already busy work schedule. That’s why it’s important to take time to process these feelings. Hobbies and personal activities are important for stress reduction and well-being. Whether it’s playing a game, pursuing a creative hobby or just reading a book, make sure personal time is part of your weekly routine. Even if it seems impossible, make it a non-negotiable at least once a week. This will allow you to be more present and engaged as you help your child through this journey without letting your emotions get in the way.
Related: 6 strategies for success as a parent entrepreneur
As I discuss the balance of work and life, or more appropriately, work and family in our lives, it is important to remember that balance is always lost and gained back. As an entrepreneur, I have come to understand that accepting this emergency is important. Some days, you may feel overwhelmed while for others everything is going well.
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