10 Tips for Dads

Kenneth Braswell is CEO of Fathers Incorporated and father of four grown children and Kenneth Jr., 11. He shares his reflections on how dads can take time to be their best.

As we prepare for the upcoming 2020 Father’s Day weekend, I’ve been thinking about how this year is different from previous years of celebrating dads. Living in the “new normal”  has made me think about how to make this one special. I’ve been doing a lot of self-reflection and attempting to do a reset on my own life. Focusing on the topics below can help you be the dad you want to be.

Self-Care
It is important to think about your own physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Find some time to read more, learn a new skill, engage in a new hobby or exercise.

Honesty
As men, we can find difficulty in being totally transparent. Share something like a story, dream, or goal with your family that you may have never talked about. Sharing is caring.

Nobility
We struggle with the lack of affirmations we receive as men. Great self-esteem begins with believing in your own greatness. Give yourself permission to be proud of who you are and what you bring to the world.

Distinction
Let yourself be seen. Summer is here; it’s a great time to beef up that wardrobe with some new swag. If you going to be great, you might as well look great.

Duty and Responsibility
We all have unfinished projects that have been laying around for years. A good friend of mine says his wife calls them “honey-do” lists. There is something someone has been expecting you to go do for some time. Now is a good time to surprise them.

Worthy
Did you know that it is ok to thank yourself? Yes, it’s ok. Give thanks to you, for something you have promised yourself or accomplished that makes you proud and contributes to the dad you are. Got great kids? Thank yourself.

Excellence
One of the best gifts we can give ourselves is to be the best. Football Great, Coach Vince Lombardi said it this way, “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”

Credibility
There is nothing more valuable to yourself than keeping your “word.” Be who you say you are, be where you say you’ll be and live in transparency and truth. It’s great to be the one person the world can depend on.

Giving
Giving is the gift that keeps on giving. If you want a rewarding and satisfying gift, give of yourself to others. A kind word, an unexpected show of forgiveness and even lending a hand to someone in need. You will love the way you feel after a giving gesture.

Mentor
Your talents, experiences, and wisdom are gifts of life to be shared with others. Whether you know it or not, somebody is watching you.

To learn more, download the free e-book, “The Honor of Fatherhood.”
Fathers Incorporated is a not-for-profit providing professional development and services to fathers and their families.