What parents say

Alexander the Great truly was an amazing person of courage. Sure, he had the best education (per Aristotle) and access to the best of everything else to grow him into the greatest conquerer ever. But I think what he believed about himself was the most instrumental in pushing him forward. Thanks to mommy dearest (and oracular confirmations) he believed he was the son of Zeus. Here's how I imagine Alexander made up his mind to be the baddest MF who ever lived:

Olympias: Alex, come on in and sit awhile. Have some grapes. I have something to tell you.
Alexander: Okay mom, but make it quick. I'm meeting the guys.
Olympias: You're old enough now, and I think what I have to tell you will help you feel confident about yourself.
Alexander: Um, okay. Didn't really have issues with that, but whatever.
Olympias: Well, you know those rumors you've heard about me sleeping with the serpent before you were born?
Alexander: Mmhmm.
Olympias: They're true.
Alexander: You mean...
Olympias: Yep, you're the son of Zeus.
Alexander: Whoa, cool.
Olympias: So, do what you will with that little tidbit. Just thought you should know.
Alexander: Gee, thanks mom!

The rest is history. There's no doubt that what parents tell their kids makes a big difference in what they eventually believe they can accomplish. Being told you're the son of God these days probably won't get you very far, but being told you're wonderful/smart/creative/pick-your-praise surely does no harm, and could possibly land you into a place thought impossible. Look at our President. I'd like to know what Barbara told little Georgie day in and day out.

Of course kids are resilient, so there've been many successful adults with less than complimentary parents. But showing belief in your child, whether sincere or not, can only lead to good things. There's been plenty written about positive reinforcement, so this is nothing new. But I've been trying a little more often to encourage my kids. If anything, starting early sprouts some good habits, which are all too easy to forget when life gets hectic. I don't have a whammy like Olympias did, but I have enough faith to make up for it.