Leading by Example: How Your Own Habits Can Influence Your Child’s Burnout Risk

Children are keen observers, and they learn more from what their parents do than from what they say. When it comes to preventing burnout, parents must lead by example, modeling the very behaviors of balance, self-compassion, and stress management they hope to instill in their children.
This concept is supported by the insights of clinical psychologist Meghna Kanwat, who points out that “parenting stress and parental burnout” directly impact children. A parent who is constantly stressed, overworked, and hard on themselves is modeling a blueprint for burnout that their child is likely to follow.
To lead by example, parents must first practice what they preach about balance. If you advocate for ‘Non-Academic Days’ for your teen, you should also demonstrate the ability to disconnect from your own work. Show them that it’s important to have hobbies, to rest, and to prioritize activities that are not related to achievement.
Modeling self-compassion is also crucial. This connects to Kanwat’s advice to avoid “perfectionism.” When you make a mistake, talk about it openly and treat yourself with kindness. This teaches your child that it’s okay to be imperfect and that self-worth is not contingent on flawless performance.
By managing your own stress in a healthy way, you provide a living lesson in emotional regulation. When your child sees you taking a few deep breaths when you’re frustrated, they learn a concrete strategy for managing their own emotions. Your actions become their internal script for how to handle pressure.