Day 17 of #365DaysOfGrowth, and today’s post is more personal than most. It’s about being an involved father, a role that I hold above all else, shaped significantly by the absence of my own father growing up.
Growing up without a father leaves a gap, a series of unanswered questions, and a longing. That void has been a powerful force in my life, one that I’ve channeled into a commitment: to be the father I never had, to be present, involved, and supportive in my children’s lives.
Why It Matters So Much:
– Breaking the Cycle: The absence of a father figure in my childhood was a challenge I had to navigate. I chose to break the cycle and be the constant presence my father couldn’t be for me.
– Teaching by Being There: Every sports game, school event, and bedtime story is an opportunity to teach by example — to show kindness, strength, understanding, and love.
– Building a Legacy of Love: More than anything, I want to leave a legacy of love and support for my children. I want them to grow up with memories filled with laughter, learning, and the comfort of having their dad always there.
Lessons and Insights for Fellow Parents:
– Presence Over Perfection: Being an involved parent isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being there, genuinely and consistently.
– Learning Together: I learn as much from my children as they do from me. It’s a journey we’re on together, each day bringing new lessons.
– Embrace Every Moment: Time flies, and children grow up fast. Cherishing each moment, even the small ones, makes a world of difference.
This is the main reason why I am into solopreneurship. To have the freedom to be present for my kids.
As I share this part of my life, I hope it resonates with those who’ve had similar experiences and inspires others in their parenting journey.
How has your upbringing influenced your approach to parenthood?
What are the values you strive to pass on to your children?
And how do you balance the demands of a career with the irreplaceable role of being a parent?
Whether you had a father figure or not, the choice of how to parent lies with us. It’s a role filled with challenges, but even more so, with immeasurable rewards.
#DailyInsightWithMike #MikeGrowsDaily #365DayLinkedInChallenge #InvolvedFatherhood
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikenavales/