When you were growing up, you said one of two things about your parents or your aunts and uncles: Either, “I don’t want to be like them when I grow up.” Or, you whispered, “I want to be like them when I’m older.”
Now it’s our turn. The kids are looking at us. They’re making their choice right now. Just as facilitator and friend, Tom, asked a group of leaders, “Are you going to leave that sort of decision to a 50/50 chance?”
I can do better. And to be sure, I don’t want the kids in my life to be like me when they’re older. I want them to be inspired by my actions to be the best them possible.
The weekend is almost here. What are three things you’ll intentionally do in the next couple of days so a child looks up at you and thinks, “I want to live my life like that,”?
Your comments are valuable to our entire community, please share below so other leaders benefit from your good thoughts.
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Comment* My goal is to be the person my 7-year-old son thinks I am.
Paul – Knowing that the 3 Mind Factors are always infuencing our performance because “we move toward our focus” – you are already being the Dad your son needs and thinks that you are – the best Dad ever. Your family is fortunate. We’d love to hear/read a story about you and your son. Cheers, Lisa Marie
It was my birthday March 15th and I love getting cards from my daughter…now 20yrs old. She writes…”I love your confidence-you are such an inspiration!”
For me, this was my very best birthday gift!
I have learned, over the years, to demonstrate by example as our kids are always ‘eyeing’ us without us ever knowing it. Every thing we do and say is being absorbed by these little ‘sponges’ and our examples are the future of their own personality.
That’s smart, Sharon, and a good reminder to us all. I’m struck by how often I’m tempted to try and “control” my childrens’ behavior…and then turn around and want them to “think for themselves” at the same time. The curse of mixed messages! Given you’re receiving such wonderful notes from your daughter, you clearly parent in an inspired state. Congrats – and thanks! – Craig