The Difference Between Pushing and Pulling Your Kid in Sports

Parents — Be Honest: Are You Pushing or Pulling?

Parents — there’s a fine line between pushing your kid toward their goals and pulling them toward yours. One builds motivation. The other kills it.

Have you ever caught yourself pushing too hard? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

Pushing = Course Correcting Their Goals

Pushing done right looks like this:

• Asking your kid what they want

• Laying out the work it will take

• Course correcting when they drift off track

You’re guiding them back to their goal — not dragging them toward yours.

Pulling = Dragging Them Toward Your Dream

Pulling happens when:

• You push harder than they want to go

• You want it more than they do

• You’re chasing your lost dreams, not theirs

Dragging kills motivation fast — even for talented players.

Parents Who Pull Too Hard Lose the Long Game

Players who are dragged toward someone else’s dream:

• Burn out

• Quit

• Grow resentful — not resilient

Pushing toward their goals? That’s coaching. Pulling toward your dream? That’s dragging.

Why This Matters to Sore to Soaring

At Sore to Soaring, we teach parents to guide — not drag — their kids. We want athletes who own their goals and build toughness the right way.

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Disclaimer:

The content shared in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, physician, or certified professional before starting any exercise program, physical activity, or health-related regimen. This is not a judgment of any person or program mentioned. All names and events are discussed from personal memory and are not meant to accuse or endorse. The goal is to share insights from lived experience and current best practices.

#YouthSports #ParentingInSports #SummerBaseball #BaseballMotivation #PlayerDevelopment #BaseballParents #SoreToSoaring #CoachLeo #AthleteMindset