Every Monday, I share a happiness tip — something that works for our family, that you might want to try with your own.
This week’s tip is: resolve to be a parent — first and foremost. Sure, it’s wonderful when your home is filled with smiles and laughter, but put bluntly, your primary job as a parent isn’t to be your children’s friend. It’s to consistently serve as a guide and authority figure by setting limits and imposing guidelines that reflect the morals and behavior you want your children to learn. When you choose to exercise your authority as a parent in a loving and encouraging manner, you set your kids up for success much more strongly than you do by catering to their desires and whims.
At one point or another, just about every parent is tempted to give in or let things slide in order to preserve our kids’ happiness, approval and friendship. It’s not always easy, but remember that parenting isn’t a hobby — it’s a responsibility that requires dedication, commitment and communication. It’s the most important job you’ll ever have.
Interestingly enough, this just came up I’m our house this morning! I have been criticized fire being, “too tough” on my kids, but I an with you all the way on this. What good would it do them to model myself as a friend? Keep up the great posts!