Lessons from Dad - Part I

Here are some things I have learned from Dad. They are not in any particular order.

Don’t Underestimate Anyone’s Value. Dad always says “Anyone can make a difference. Everyone should try.” Even small actions can have enormous impact.

Take the Initiative. There is no better way to gain a reputation as a person who makes things happen, then to be a person who makes things happen. My Dad is such a man.

Make the Most of First Impressions. Be confident and gracious. Shake hands firmly, smile, and listen actively. Dress appropriately and make eye contact. Dress for the position you want – not the one you have. However I don’t recommend wearing a suit to farm like Eddie Albert did in “Green Acres.”

Delegate – Especially when others talents in a particular area are stronger than yours. This also goes to the adage “many hands make light work.” With Dad being a manager (knowing how to delegate), I found I worked a lot.

Make a Habit of Saving. No one owes you a pension or retirement pay. Social Security was designed to be a supplement not the answer for Retirement.

Set a Higher Standard. Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability. The worst thing we can do for others is lowering the standard because some people cannot meet it. It implies someone is not capable of growing. Work toward raising them up to the higher standard and they will achieve. At a minimum provide the tools and environment they need to succeed.

Have a Winning Attitude. Attitude is important. It is something you control and something you can chose – negative or positive. I choose to be positive, and so does my dad.

Realize Learning can be Costly. Education is expensive, but ignorance costs much more. Recognize you will pay the price, either for education or ignorance. Education is one thing no one can ever take away from you.

Give your kids a vision for their future – encourage them! Your words are the most powerful force in their lives. Praise your children in front of others. Let them know you are proud of them. I need to do this much more often. I have not been good at this in the past.

Commitment. When you make a commitment keep it. While this is not always possible because things do come up – try your hardest to keep your promise. My dad schedules his personal time around his commitment to others.

You Hit What You Aim For. If you are aiming for nothing, you’ll hit nothing. Set your goals high. Dream big. Even if you fall short, you will have achieved more than most.

-Craig