Dad Advice

Father’s Day is a special day for me –  thinking of Dad, and being a Dad and a Grandpa. Let’s face it, Dads are amazing – loving, insightful, strong, patient, friend, counselor, consoler, and so much more. Some of the best memories I have of my Dad are the advice he gave me over the years. Sometimes it was about character, sometimes it was about business, sometimes it was just about “being a good man”, not giving up, and other times it was centered on love, respect, and laughter. I can’t pick specific times he said his “words of wisdom”, but I know he passed them along – sometimes without ever speaking, simply by his actions and deeds. Oftentimes, I reflect on something I’ve done or said, and simply say, “Thanks, Dad.”

Here are a few I remember that I’ve tried to adopt – (if you have some “dad” tips, please share (skowalski@khtheat.com) – my guess is amongst all our readers, we’d likely assemble a guide to living a really good life. On this upcoming Father’s Day, reflect back on all you learned from Dad (and Grandpa) and pass it along to those you love and respect – my guess is, it will keep you in the “strait and narrow” (see Matthew 7-14). Thanks, Dad!  Enjoy!

Do the right thing, even when no one is watching: Integrity is the foundation of character. Always behave right. Always!

Your word is your bond: Follow through on commitments and apologize immediately when wrong (especially with family, friends, and customers)

Work hard, stay humble: Self-discipline builds a productive life. Never get “ahead of your skis” and be thankful for everything.

Keep a firm handshake: Look people in the eye. (my friend’s Dad added: “and don’t just polish the tips of your shoes”)

Respect everyone: Manners and respect carry more weight than money

You can always come home: Providing a safety net allowed me to take healthy risks and try things, knowing Dad always had my back

Choose your battles: Don’t waste energy on things that don’t matter in the long run. (and, when confronted by a ruffian, know there’s always someone bigger and stronger!)

Take care of your family: Be present, attend the big moments, and prioritize your kids and grandkids over distractions. 

Always respect your wife: Pretty simple here, but never forgotten

Be a gentleman: Open doors, treat people with honor, and watch your language.

Manage money wisely: Save early and live within your means.

And some really practical tips…

Leave early for the airport: Reduce stress by being prepared (my girls really love this one!)

Always have a working flashlight: Be prepared for emergencies.

Learn to fix it yourself: Take pride in self-sufficiency.

When you get knocked down, get back up and try again. (good football tip)

My Favorite: Sometimes a good hug is all that’s really needed!

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