Raising our kids to be happy and well-adjusted individuals has never been easy. It’s become even tougher in our overwhelmingly negative world, but it certainly isn’t impossible. As a parent you have the greatest influence over your child, especially during the early years. So, whether you like it or not, you are the role model by default to your child. This means that you have to lead by example, shaping your child’s behavior and attitudes. This may be a huge responsibility, but you don’t have to be the ‘perfect’ parent to be a positive role model for your kids. Just start with some serious self-examination and by making a few positive changes to your life.
- Self-Improvement First
No one is perfect and we can all do with some self-improvement. If you start with this assumption and make a serious effort to improve, you can’t go wrong. Always be conscious of your words and actions, and make an effort to self-correct. It’s not easy to be on your best behavior 24/7, but you have to try because your kids are watching everything that you say and do. From your mannerisms, attitudes, the words you use, right down to your quirks, you can bet that your child will imitate and emulate everything that you do.
- Love Yourself
Being your best self also means being your healthiest self. You simply can’t be a good role model if you neglect your own health. This means getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising every day, taking time off to relax, building your self-esteem, and seeking treatment for stress or anxiety disorders if necessary. Aside from teaching your child about the importance of healthy eating and fitness, this will also help you become a more active and involved parent, without you feeling drained all the time.
- Be a Better Spouse
Being a better spouse may be an unusual requirement for a role model, but it’s important if you’re raising the kids together – as a couple. Your child gets his or her first lesson in adult relationships from watching the way you interact with your partner. Children can sense hostility and tension just as well as they can perceive warmth and love. The kind of relationship you and your partner have will have the biggest influence on your child’s perception of relationships. To a large extent, it will also influence and affect the outcome of her relationships later in life.
- Be a Standup Guy or Gal
As a positive role model, you need to be that person who everyone can count on, most importantly your child. This means coming through on commitments that you make to your child, no matter how trivial they might seem to you. So, if you promised your child a day at the petting zoo this weekend, don’t bail at the last minute because you can bag a new work project. Work shouldn’t always come first and certainly not outside of working hours.
- Be Altruistic
It’s natural for parents to want to spoil their children and there’s certainly nothing wrong with giving your child the best that you can. Sometimes, however, you need to take a step back. You don’t want your child to grow up to be an obnoxious self-centered adult. You can inspire your child to be selfless and empathetic through your example. Be more compassionate and helpful towards others in your community. You don’t have to be a do-gooder who puts everyone else’s needs ahead of his own or his family’s, but you can help within your capacity.
- Show Your Grit
Life is tough and there’s no point sugar coating it. Raising a child to believe that the world is perfect and fair can set him up for disappointment and failure as an adult. Instead, let you child know that the best things in life don’t come by easily and that you have to work towards your goals. Be the role model who achieved what seemed impossible through sheer grit, determination, and perseverance. The most inspiring stories are ones of people who overcome poverty, loss, discrimination, and other difficulties. It’s an inspiring message of hope that will keep your child going even when times get tough.
- Own Up & Apologize
Despite your efforts at self-improvement, there will be times when you slip up. You may lose your temper and scream at your spouse or be judgmental and speak ill of your neighbors. It doesn’t matter what the reason was and how justified your outburst may have been. If you do something wrong, own up to it and make amends. It’s healthy and positive for kids to see their parents take responsibility and accept self-imposed consequences for their actions.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
