A Secret to Dad Greatness

By Leo Babauta I have six kids, ages ranging at the moment from 7 to 20. And while I’m not perfect as a father, I have learned a thing or two from my 20 years of service. I’ve learned to pay attention, to give them space, to accept them for who they are, to be a guide and not a director, to help them through teachable moments, to love reading a book with them, to walk and talk when we have problems, to give hugs when they are in pain and hugs when they experience a triumph, to set limits and then remove the limits when they’re excited about something. It’s a lot to learn, a lot to tackle at once. And so I’ve boiled all of this down to one daily practice. One thing to help you be a great dad. Appreciate your child’s love for you. Do this every day, whenever you see your child, and even when they’re not around. This love for you is a gift, and it manifests itself in so many ways: in the way they want your attention, your affection, your approval, your pride in what they do. In wanting to spend time with you. In watching you to see how to live life. In learning from you whenever you talk to them. This daily practice, of appreciating their love for you, will make your life better. It will help you be the role model they need, because someone who appreciates the love of others is a beacon of gratitude and humility and mindfulness. And when you appreciate their love for you, you realize that you have a boundless source of happiness...
Source: Zen Habits - Category: Life Coaches Authors: Tags: Finance & Family Happiness Source Type: blogs