No one ever wants to be one of those annoying parents. Have you ever thought about something your parents did when you were a child and said to yourself, I’m never going to do that when I’m a parent? Maybe you’ve even thought, I’m going to be better than that. Then you find yourself doing that very thing. I’ve been there.
My parents were my heroes growing up. I learned a lot from them, which I have talked about many times. However, my dad did one thing that really bothered me, and I promised myself I would never do it when I had kids. But then, I did it.
Relating to Kids
Every time we turned on the radio in the car to the music we liked, such as The Temptations and The Four Tops, my dad would change the station to something he liked. He just couldn’t relate to the music I enjoyed. So I promised myself that when I had kids I wasn’t going to be like that. I was going to engage with their music. Then, of course, I ended up being just like my dad. When they turned on their rap music, I immediately changed the station.
Taking Small Steps
Fortunately, I reminded myself of the promise I had made—that I would relate to their music. Now I find myself listening to what my kids listen to so I can relate to them a little more as a dad. Sometimes those small steps into their world make a huge difference.
Sound off: What is something your parents did that you promised yourself you would never do when you became a parent?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What is one thing you wish I could relate to better?”