When Parenting Feels Like a Marathon (Not a Sprint)

Let’s be real — parenting a teen can feel like running a marathon you never signed up for. Some days you’re full of energy, keeping pace with their schoolwork, their moods, their dreams. Other days, it feels like you’re dragging your feet, wondering if you’ll ever reach the next checkpoint.

But here’s the reminder we all need: parenting isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present. Every step counts, even the clumsy ones. When you show up, even on the hard days, you’re teaching your teen resilience, patience, and love.

Think about the little victories. Maybe your teen finally asked for help with homework instead of shutting down. Maybe they cracked a smile at dinner after a long, tough day. Or maybe you managed to listen without jumping in with advice too quickly. These may feel small, but they are powerful markers of progress — both yours and theirs.

And when things don’t go smoothly? That’s where growth happens. Learning to celebrate progress, not perfection helps you focus on the journey rather than the finish line. Helping your teen set goals and priorities can give them ownership of their path, while you provide the steady encouragement that keeps them moving forward.

Parenting isn’t a sprint to the “finish line” of good grades or perfect behavior. It’s about building endurance, weathering the tough miles, and reminding yourself that growth takes time. And though your teen may not always say it, they notice your effort. Your consistency, your patience, and your presence matter more than you think.

So take a deep breath. Celebrate the fact that you’re still running this race with them. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how fast you go — it’s about showing your teen that you’ll keep running alongside them, no matter the terrain.

👉 For more encouragement, check out:

• Encouraging a Growth Mindset in Teenagers

• How to Grow Kind, Empathetic Humans

• Helping Your Teen Think Critically

Here at Genie, we care about our students beyond the academics. Click here to learn more about us!

All the best to you on your parenting journey.