Super Dads Have A Plan. So many dads I know just move from day to day trying to work through what the day brings. But Super Dads create a fathering plan that allows them to focus on that which is most important. For example, with my demanding professional schedule, if I didn't plan family vacations about a year ahead, we would never have one. Planning involves examining values, setting meaningful family goals and then acting on those goals with a calendar in hand.
Super Dads Take Time to Teach. Fathers need to understand that one of their most important missions is to help their children learn timeless values. Dads need to teach the value of personal responsibility, of work, of family commitment, of honesty, of faith, and of service. Children need to learn the hallmarks of a happy life, and fathers play an important role there.
Super Dads Make Time for Family. One of the important things we have done in our family is to set aside one evening per week that is just ours, and that is not violated by other demands on our time. Wise fathers will recognize that "quality time" is not enough if there isn't at least some "quantity time."
Super Dads Make One on One Time. While you can build positive memories and experiences with family activities, true relationships are built with your children one at a time. Make sure you don't neglect that one-on-one focus. These can include fun activities as well as personal "interviews" with your children.
Super Dads Take Care of Themselves. You can't afford to neglect your personal needs and have something to give your children. Dr. Stephen Covey uses the example of taking time to "sharpen the saw" rather than continually sawing with a dull saw. Making sure you eat right, get some exercise, see your doctor and dentist periodically and have a rich spiritual life are all important components.
Super Dads Emphasize Relationships. If you are still married to your children's mom, you must nurture your relationship with her. I have always believed counsel I heard early in my life that "the best single thing you can do for your children is to love their mother." If you are not married to your children's mom, you still understand that personal relationships are critical to a happy life. Whether with your children, your friends, or your significant other, don't neglect relationships. And help your children see that value in their lives as well.
Fathers who hope to find themselves in the Super Dad category need to effectively balance their time and priorities to put family first, to offer both quantity and quality time to their families and to balance between family time and individual time with your their children. When these things are accomplished, then you have earned the title, Super Dad.
