Parenting Survival Rule # 3- Adults Make Mistakes

I know this is not something that we like to admit to others, especially our children, but it’s true. One of the worst things that we can do for children is to follow the “Do what I say, not what I do” philosophy. Whether you are a parent, teacher, mentor, Aunt, Uncle, or just even a friend of a parent, never forget that kids are always watching. They are sponges that soak up everything from mannerisms to, dare I say it, curse words. My mother’s favorite story was how one of my first sayings was, “Well, s**t!” Does anyone want to guess what her favorite saying was back in 1981?? You guessed it! But here’s the simplicity of it all, there is no rule book that says we can’t change; that we can’t start over. Asking for someone’s forgiveness does not give them power over you. Don’t be afraid to admit when you are struggling or didn’t handle a situation in the best way. When you are sleep deprived, stressed at work, or even having a tiff with your spouse, you will be more likely to share this tone with your children. It happens to all of us. If you are thinking that you have never been short with your children because of something separate that happened, I want to meet you and nominate you for Sainthood. And the remainder of the world can join together, lift our heads, and shout in harmony that we have all fallen short. At this point, some of you may be thinking, ok, so what now? Start over. Every day, start with a perspective that today is another chance to be the best you can be and that you will lead better by example than directives.