Who do we call father? What does it mean to be a father?
How many of us are still fortunate that we have our dads here with us to celebrate Father’s Day?
Today we celebrate the important male role models in our lives. Those that had a major impact in our development. Obviously, you father was one of those people, but for those who were not raised with their father, another male probably stepped in and was present during your development. This may have been a step dad, your grandfather, an uncle, a teacher, a neighbor, a scout leader or a coach.
I am speaking today about that male figure in your life that had a significant impact on your development. I have been fortunate enough to have all of these role models in my life. My father died when I was very young and there were a number of men who stepped up to give me guidance and advice. They also gave me structure. This guidance continued for many years and in-fact, it still continues today even as I am in the stage of my life where I realize I have lived more days than I have left on this earth.
What were some of the things that I learned from the male role models in my life?
Learn how to ask questions and then listen to the answers for better insight.
You were given one mouth and two ears to help you communicate and this is the proper ratio of using them during conversations.
People are watching you ,many times when you least expect it so be yourself and do not put on an act and live to your highest level and highest purpose.
What is means to be be a man . Leading your family. Leading your team.
You need to follow before you can lead and you can learn from those who lead us well and those who stumble while leading
Always catch people doing the right thing-especially children, and reinforce more of the behavior that you want.
Be organized in your life -this means your days, weeks, months and years. Know where you are on the path and what direction you are moving toward. You may not know exactly where you you will end up but follow the path.
Do not be afraid of course corrections. You can only change course when the ship is moving and you can use the rudder.
This world is filled with all types of people, you will have to work with them, live by and with them and communicate with them. Celebrate the differences but do not ever lose sight of who you are.
My father-in-law was a major role model in my life and we had a great relationship. He had a successful career as an attorney and politician. He raised six children and had people skills that were fantastic. He taught me many things about being a leader and helping others in my family, my company , my community and even on a broader scope – the world. I miss him but his words are in me and today, I want to celebrate him and all the other influential men that have touched my life.
These men each had a role in putting me on this path toward coaching and leading . I think of each of these men as having a building block that they were able to lay into the foundation of who I have be come and continue to evolve . This foundation is always with me.
Who are the male role models in your life? If your dad is still walking this earth, I hope you reach out to him, not just on Father’s Day, but regularly, let him know what he means to you. Listen to his thoughts and be open to the message that they bring to you.
I consider my coaching as an extension of the thoughts, advice and role modeling that I have had the privilege to have been exposed to. Many times as I am coaching, I ask myself what this person or that might do in this situation. They live on in me. Many are now passed on but their thoughts are timeless.
You can be a father figure in so many ways!
Happy Father’s Day!
For more information on coaching your team to a new level and full engagement-check out some of our other materials on Oars Forward.
