Our instinct as parents can be to hold our kids so tightly in order to protect and guide them into the life we want for them. Sadly, such a tight rein sometimes squashes their unique traits—pieces of them that should be celebrated and allowed space to learn and grow in their own way.

In a society that likes to point out weaknesses and conform us to fit a specific mold, Marcus Buckingham wants to turn this thinking upside down by helping people define strengths, innate tendencies, and personal loves. In this clip, he shares the extremes of his own experiences, from his ex-wife and son’s involvement in a college admissions scandal, to his own childhood filled with space to become his own person.

Sponsors and discounts:

• Avocado Mattress
• The Good Chocolate
• Better Help — use code PGISH for 10% off your first month
• Our Favorite Things—A Resource Guide!

Show links:

• Watch the full clip.
• Learn more at marcusbuckingham.com.
• Read Love + Work.

As always, I’d love to hear from you! Subscribe, leave a review, or follow PG-ish on IG @pgishparenting, or you can always find me at www.pgishparenting.com.