Growing up, our parents’ words often shape us more than we realize.
Some phrases echo in our minds long into adulthood, subtly guiding our decisions and influencing our values. But not all phrases are created equal.
Certain expressions stand out — ones that demonstrate genuine kindness and wisdom. These are the phrases uttered by truly good people, and if you heard these as a child, it’s a testament to your parents’ authenticity.
In this article, we’ll explore eight phrases that, if you recall hearing them in your formative years, it’s a clear sign you were raised by genuinely good people.
This isn’t about dissecting every word or phrase. It’s about appreciating the positive influence these phrases can have on your life, and understanding how they can shape your outlook and communication style for the better.
1) “I’m proud of you”
One of the most powerful phrases a child can hear is “I’m proud of you”.
This simple expression affirms your achievements and validates your efforts. It’s not just about celebrating victories, but acknowledging the growth and progress you’ve made.
When parents use this phrase, they’re not only boosting your self-confidence but teaching you to value personal growth over external accolades. It’s a way of recognizing hard work, commitment, and resilience – qualities that are crucial for success in all areas of life.
Being raised by people who regularly expressed their pride in your accomplishments likely instilled in you a strong sense of self-worth and a healthy ambition to continually improve.
This phrase is a powerful tool in any parent’s arsenal, demonstrating support, love, and belief in their child’s potential. If you heard this growing up, it’s a sign that you were raised by truly good people.
2) “It’s okay to make mistakes”
I still remember the time I accidentally broke my mother’s favorite vase while playing indoor soccer.
I was scared to admit what I had done, fearing her anger. Instead of the scolding I was expecting, she simply said, “It’s okay to make mistakes, we all make them. What’s important is that we learn from them.”
This phrase was a game-changer for me. It taught me that it’s okay to fail, and that mistakes are just stepping stones on the path to success.
By saying this, parents teach their children not to fear failure but to embrace it as a valuable learning opportunity. It fosters resilience and encourages a growth mindset, creating a safe space where children can experiment, take risks, and grow without fear of judgment.
If you were fortunate enough to hear this phrase growing up, it likely shaped your attitude towards failure and risk-taking in a profoundly positive way. It’s another clear indication that you were raised by genuinely good people.
3) “You can do anything you set your mind to”
This is a phrase that embodies the power of positive thinking and belief. It’s a message of empowerment, encouraging children to aim high and pursue their dreams with determination and self-belief.
The interesting thing is that this phrase has scientific backing. Studies in the field of psychology have shown that self-efficacy – the belief in one’s capabilities to achieve a goal or an outcome – plays a critical role in how we approach goals, tasks, and challenges.
When parents tell their children they can do anything, they’re fostering this sense of self-efficacy. They’re teaching them to believe in their abilities, to be tenacious and persistent in the face of adversity.
Hearing this as a child would have helped cultivate your self-esteem, ambition, and resilience. It’s a testament to the wisdom and goodness of your parents.
4) “I’m here for you”
The value of these four words cannot be overstated. “I’m here for you” is a phrase that communicates unconditional support, love, and availability.
Parents who use this phrase are assuring their children that they can always turn to them in times of need. This creates a safe space for open communication and emotional expression, helping children feel secure and less alone in their struggles.
This phrase doesn’t just provide comfort in the moment; it builds trust and strengthens the parent-child bond, nurturing emotional resilience and fostering a sense of security.
If you heard this phrase as a child, it’s a sign your parents prioritized emotional support and connection. These are hallmarks of genuinely good people.
5) “You are loved”
These three words, “You are loved”, carry a weight of emotion that is difficult to capture in words. They convey a depth of affection, acceptance, and reassurance that can warm even the coldest heart.
Parents who frequently express their love verbally help their children develop a strong sense of self-worth and belonging.
The knowledge of being unconditionally loved provides a firm foundation for children to explore the world, form relationships, and face life’s challenges with confidence.
No matter the circumstances or the struggles faced, hearing these words can make all the difference. They serve as a powerful reminder that love is constant and unwavering.
If you were told “You are loved” as a child, you were truly blessed. It’s a clear sign that you were raised by genuinely good people.
6) “I believe in you”
I’ll never forget the day I decided to quit my job and pursue a writing career. I was terrified, unsure if I was making the right choice. But when I shared my decision with my parents, their response was simple yet powerful: “We believe in you.”
This phrase is a vote of confidence, a statement of unwavering faith in a child’s abilities and potential. It gives them the courage to take risks, face challenges, and pursue their dreams, secure in the knowledge that they have their parents’ support and belief behind them.
If you heard these words growing up, it’s likely instilled in you a confidence that has guided you throughout your life. It’s yet another indication of the goodness of your parents.
7) “It’s important to be kind”
This phrase is more than just a lesson in manners. It’s a guiding principle that shapes the way we treat others and interact with the world.
Parents who emphasize kindness are instilling a deep respect for others in their children. They’re teaching them to value empathy, compassion, and consideration, qualities that are essential for forming meaningful relationships and contributing positively to society.
This phrase reminds children that kindness matters, that it’s a strength rather than a weakness. It’s a lesson that likely guided your actions and attitudes growing up, shaping you into a person who values and practices kindness.
If you heard “It’s important to be kind” as a child, it’s a testament to the goodness of your parents.
8) “Be true to yourself”
This phrase is perhaps the most important of all. “Be true to yourself” is a message of authenticity, encouraging children to honor their unique traits, values, and passions.
Parents who pass on this wisdom are teaching their children the value of individuality and self-respect. They’re encouraging them to be comfortable in their own skin, to make decisions based on their own beliefs rather than external pressure or expectations.
This phrase empowers children to live authentically and courageously, shaping them into individuals who know their worth and aren’t afraid to be themselves. If you heard this as a child, it’s the ultimate sign that you were raised by genuinely good people.
Reflecting on the past
As we journey through life, it’s often the smallest things that leave the most significant impact. In this case, it’s the simple phrases we heard as children.
These phrases, spoken by parents and loved ones, are more than just words. They’re the building blocks of our character, shaping our beliefs, values, and behavior.
The beauty of these phrases lies in their simplicity and sincerity. They don’t require grand gestures or elaborate speeches – just a genuine heart and a willingness to guide a child towards their best self.
Hearing these phrases as a child is a testament to the goodness of your parents. It’s an indication that they weren’t just raising a child; they were nurturing a soul.
So take a moment to reflect on these phrases. Perhaps they’ll remind you of your own childhood or inspire you as a parent. After all, words have power, and it’s up to us how we choose to wield it.
