10 Things I Learned from MY Dad

I’ll add my entry to the many lists of this type that you’re likely to read on this Father’s Day, 2014. Actually, the title should probably be “11 Things I Learned…” because one of the most important lessons was the understanding that you can learn as much by paying attention what NOT to do as you can be imitating the good things. My father, like me, was not the perfect Dad. So, there are some items on here that Dad taught me by demonstrating them in his own life, and a few that he slyly sneaked in there by behaving less than perfectly. Either way, I’m grateful for Dad, and I miss him.

1. It’s more important to tell your kids what you hope to see them accomplish, than what you don’t want them to do.
2. Sometimes you should apologize, it doesn’t undermine your credibility as a parent – it enhances it!
3. Spending time with your kids is important, and paying attention to them when you’re with them is even more important.
4. You can fix almost anything temporarily with duct tape and WD-40.
5. Taking risks insures you will never look back with regret.
6. Your child needs to know that you are his/her biggest fan.
7. Sooner or later, you have to let your children make mistakes. Good judgment comes from experience and experience comes from bad judgment.
8. Hard work is not a bad thing.
9. It is impossible to say “I love you” too often.
10. Being “Dad” is the most important job you will ever have.

Happy Father’s Day to all of the Dads out there, and thank you to my sweet daughters for giving me the opportunity to be your Dad!