In our previous article, we explored the importance of helping your homeschooler tap into their vast untapped potential, as outlined in Robert K. Cooper’s book, The Other 90%. Building upon this foundation, we now delve into the practical strategies for cultivating a mindset of excellence and nurturing the habits that will help your child reach their full potential.

One of the central tenets of Cooper’s philosophy is the power of setting great goals. As he explains, “It takes great goals to lead us out of our everyday limits into accomplishing more than we ever thought we could or would.” Encourage your child to dream big and set ambitious goals for their personal growth and learning. Help them understand that by aiming high, they open themselves up to new possibilities and opportunities for growth.

At QMAK, we believe in the power of questioning to spark insight and drive action. Encourage your child to ask themselves, “What would I attempt if I knew I could not fail?” This question helps them tap into their deepest aspirations and passions, and gives them the courage to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.

Another crucial aspect of cultivating a mindset of excellence is learning to view adversity as an ally. Cooper emphasizes the importance of asking, “What can I do, however small, to gain some control over this situation?” when faced with challenges or setbacks. Help your child develop the habit of focusing on what they can control and taking proactive steps to overcome obstacles and learn from their experiences.

Incorporate this principle into your homeschooling journey by encouraging your child to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Help them develop resilience and a problem-solving mindset by guiding them to break down large obstacles into manageable steps and celebrate their progress along the way.

Cooper also stresses the importance of continuous change and growth, stating, “Aristotle said, ‘Time does not exist except for change.’ The origin of the word change is the Old English cambium, which means ‘to become.’ In other words, time does not exist except for becoming something new.” Encourage your child to embrace change and seek out new experiences that push them beyond their comfort zone and nourish their soul.

By helping your child cultivate a mindset of excellence and embrace the habits of continuous growth and improvement, you empower them to reach their full potential and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. As Cooper reminds us, “We are each given the chance to leave a unique imprint on the world. What will be yours?“

At QMAK, we believe that by nurturing your child’s drive for excellence, encouraging them to dream big, and guiding them to view challenges as opportunities for growth, you set the stage for a lifetime of personal and academic success. By embracing the principles of lifelong learning, proactive problem-solving, and continuous self-improvement, your child will be well-equipped to thrive in all areas of their life and make their unique mark on the world.