Lessons from Magbean: What Kids Teach Us About Patience, Friendship, and Growth

When I first started writing You Can’t Rush Friendships, I thought I was creating a simple story for children about making friends. What I quickly realised was that Magbean had lessons for me too. Children often remind us of the things we forget in the rush of everyday life.

Writing about Magbean and Magbroccoli showed me the value of patience, empathy, and growth, not only for kids but for all of us.

Patience

In the story, Magbean wants to be instant best friends with Magbroccoli. He tries a little too hard, too fast, and things do not quite go as planned. Through Magbean, I learnt how important it is to slow down, listen, and respect other people’s pace. Patience with people doesn't only apply within friendships; it goes much further. Friendships, like so many things, cannot be forced. They grow best with time and kindness.

Friendship and Empathy

When Magbean finally begins to understand Magbroccoli, he realises that being kind is the first step to building a real connection. This reminded me that friendships are not always about what we want, but about understanding the needs of others. Kids grasp this so naturally. They see and feel things we adults often miss. Writing this story helped me reflect on my own friendships, reminding me how important it is to listen first.

Growth

Every bean grows at their own pace, and so do people. Magbean learns this lesson by making mistakes and learning from them, trying again with patience.

For me, growth has come from writing, illustrating, and sharing this story with the world. Each step has been a chance to learn something new, even when it felt hard.

The lessons of Magbean are simple but powerful. Slow down. Be kind. Celebrate growth, no matter how small. These are reminders for all of us, whether we are five, fifteen, or fifty.

What lessons have the kids in your life taught you recently?

✨ You can read You Can’t Rush Friendships and discover more about Magbean on Beanpie Island by visiting the shop. ✨

Remember to Own Your Bean!

Nat 💚

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