A Priceless Lesson on Money
Affleck recounted a humorous yet telling moment when Samuel expressed his desire for a pair of $6,000 sneakers. “He wanted these sneakers, and I was like, ‘These sneakers are $6,000; what are you talking about? What are you going to do, mow lawns? You got $6,000’?” he joked. When Samuel insisted that he had the money, Affleck quickly clarified, “I have the money! You’re broke,” highlighting the need for his son to understand the difference between their financial situations.This interaction serves as a valuable lesson for Samuel, who is now “reckoning with that reality” after being denied the pricey footwear. Affleck noted that while Samuel has shoes, they are not the extravagant ones he desires.
TheImportance of Earning
Affleck believes that not teaching children the importance of working for what they want does them a disservice. He stated, “You love your kids. You want to give them everything and do everything for them,” but emphasized that they must learn the connection between work and reward. He further explained, “If you want that, you can work 1,000 hours. You know what I mean? Minimum wage.” This perspective encourages his children to appreciate the effort that goes into financial decisions. The sneakers in question were a pair of Dior Air Jordan 1 shoes, which originally retailed for $2,000 but have since skyrocketed in value due to their status as collector’s items.
Setting an Example for His Children
Affleck is not just advising his kids to work; he is setting an example by encouraging them to take on jobs. He revealed that his two older children, Violet, 19, and Seraphina, 16, have already begun to explore their own work opportunities. “In fact, one just got a job, the kind of classic teenager working a shop job — I won’t say what it is,” he mentioned. He also noted that his college-aged daughter is actively seeking an internship for the summer. By promoting the idea of classic teenage jobs, Affleck is helping his children learn important life skills and gain financial independence. These experiences will likely foster a sense of responsibility and an understanding of the value of money that will benefit them in the long run.
Conclusion
Ben Affleck’s approach to parenting underscores the importance of teaching children the value of hard work and financial responsibility. By encouraging his kids to earn their own money, he is preparing them for a future where they can appreciate the effort it takes to make significant purchases. As they navigate their teenage years, these lessons will serve them well, instilling a strong work ethic and a sense of independence.
