+ Patience: No matter how challenging the little blighters can be, try not to rush them.
+ Lead by example. Sounds like some leadership course? We are their first role models. Let them see you take action on both good and bad observations e.g. congratulate or recognise a good deed.
+ Invest time with them.
+ Love ‘em no matter what! So they spewed over your suit before that business meeting, trashed the house, blew your credit card or ran over the dog. Love them, and let them know it, all the time.
+ Enjoy life, have fun. Laugh, be active. Be enthusiastic about life and do stuff!
+ Bring home the bacon. It’s a definite weight on our shoulders. But we do need to adequately shelter and feed our dependents. Sound primitive…welcome to the foundations of our lives. Do it well and do it with pride.
+ Love their mother. Be sure your kids witness your unconditional love to her, at a minimum show respect.
+ Don’t patronise. It’s important to explain and provide sound reasoning for your actions and requests.
+ Time for discussion. Consider structuring the meal with everyone talking about their days’ highs and lows. You’ll be encouraged to see the discussion that emerges.
+ It’s OK to show your vulnerability. By doing so you can lead by example and teach them how to cope as failure arise.
+ At a minimum, you should create an environment that builds their confidence, self esteem and critical thinking. These three attributes, we think, will be the backbone of their life successes.