Father’s Day 2011 brings a new responsibility for children. It is not just another day to give day to give dads another necktie or household appliance. Rather it should be a momentous occasion to celebrate the heroes and role models among us.
Our fathers should be celebrated. We should also recognize those who continuously serve as father figures. Families make arrangements for a special day out or prepare a unique meal. But, too often we forget to recognize the leadership lessons learned from them. In fact, their guidance is often a big reason everyday a success. Believe me, I know.
My father, grandfathers, and uncles all have been instrumental providing several key leadership principles. Here are three ways that the occasion of Father’s Day 2011 can be an opportunity to celebrate outstanding leadership.
1. Game plan – Throughout the years, my Dad and grandfathers showed me the importance of having a game plan. This meant having action steps and a clear strategy to follow. Whether or not we were watching a sports event or just reflecting about a course of action, the insight was invaluable. There were times when I was not sure what direction to go. Then Dad would offer some reflections. Viola! Suddenly, the next step or main issues became clear.
2. Stay Focused – Every leader must have a way to find the proper balance between a game plan and down time. For me, this meant having a timeframe for getting the job done but also for pausing to recoup. You know what I mean. Work hard, play hard. My father provided the big picture about self-care and taking time out for priorities. He taught me how to take time out even when projects on my plate would indicate otherwise. One year, we went on a river rafting and it provided the perfect outlet for me to regroup and get focus.
3. Fortitude – Whenever tough situations and adversity emerges, the best leaders shine. These leaders really power through whatever they are confronted with. While growing up, Dad took time to reinforce the quality of tenacity. It was not something he spelled out. Finding the courage to go on was an example he set. It was also how he provided answers to my questions about life. More often than not it was what he did not say that reinforced the ability to dig down deep within.
If nothing else, we can pause to appreciate the formula for success that our fathers provide for us. Their support, focus, and nurturance instilled into us leadership lessons that will endure for a lifetime.
Author Note: Thanks, Dad!
-Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
Great insight and acknowledgement of fathers. While we constantly hear about the fathers who have fallen short by not being present, it’s great to see, hear, and read about the fathers getting the recognition they deserve as they, along with mothers, provide those building blocks that enable our children to succeed