A Message About Strong Family Men
+ Their importance in building resilient families
As men, we are responsible for many critical positions in our families.
Whether living in the role of a husband, father, brother, uncle, or grandfather, we have a tremendous influence over the ones we love. And that's why it's essential for us to reflect upon the importance of our presence and how we can be the best family men possible. None of the aforementioned is to suggest that our women do not need strength, but their strength is different and complementary in nature; this piece is focused on men.
Strong family men share the same variety of characteristics critical to creating healthy, happy families.
These attributes include:
Support and Encouragement - Strong family oriented men are supportive and encouraging to all that they lead, from toddlers to adults; it’s an important reminder that you should be developing the risk tolerance of those you love to spare them the fate of playing it safe and dying on their death bed with a head full of regrets. These men provide a safe, nurturing environment for their loved ones to grow and thrive while learning that when they stretch their wings in life, someone is there to help if they fall. These men are always there to lend a helping hand or a listening ear when needed and, whenever necessary, a swift kick in the rear to get things back in motion.
Commitment and Dedication - The best family men are committed and dedicated to their families, period. They aren’t the men you’ll ever see viewing their wife to be a “ball & chain” or their children as being nothing more than inconveniences in life. These men place their loved ones above all else and make them a priority. They work hard to provide for their families and are always there when needed; they take pride in their clan and do what they can to set the entire family on a greater trajectory.
Communication and Understanding - Strong family men are excellent communicators and listeners; even when their presence may be classified as being more stoic and somber, the men who know the value of the spoken word do not dilute their message through volume. When a strong man who has your best interest in mind takes the time to share a message, you will listen because it matters. Those who take the time to listen to their loved ones, understand their needs and concerns, and work together to find solutions are the men who find themselves surrounded by loved ones and living a life of satisfaction and contentment as they know they’ve built their peace.
Role Modeling - Powerful family men are role models for their children and other family members. They lead by example, showing how to live with integrity, compassion, and respect. These are the men who know that their example will be followed, not their advice. This is why these men are perpetual students, even as masters. Always learning and paying attention, those who focus on their presence, and are intentional with their delivery, from words to clothes, are men who find themselves emulated, and thus, the standard of all they impact rises.
Ever-Felt Presence - It’s when your loved ones think of you before taking action that you know you’re doing it right as a leader of a family. Before making a wrong choice, if your guidance and example flash through your family’s mind, then you are making an impact, even when you are 1,000 miles away.
These are but a few of the characteristics which must be embodied for a man best lead and impact his family. Being an anchor that grounds the family during the storms, that is developed through time, and putting the reps in while the sun is shining.
How can we become stronger family men and create stronger families?
Here are some strategies and insights that can help:
Prioritize Family Time
Make sure to spend quality time with your loved ones regularly. Whether it’s watching a movie, playing sports, or tackling a home project together, quality family time is critical to building strong relationships. If you’ve developed a level of strength within yourself and never take the time to pass it on to anyone else, then the grit and determination die with you.
Be Present and Engaged
Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and be present and engaged when spending time with your family. Being fully present at that moment of “togetherness” be it dinner, playing catch, or walking, builds trust, enhances communication, and fosters happier, healthier relationships.
Communicate with Honesty and Respect
Communicate honestly and respectfully with your loved ones, even when the truth hurts, as it is better to be punched by reality than kissed by a lie. Also, take the time to really listen and always strive to understand their perspectives. Being open to feedback and avoiding criticism or defensiveness will show that you, too, are strong enough to change your opinion and aren’t “set in your ways”. Changing your mind is a strength of its own and one you must possess, especially as you age and the rules of life change.
Lead by Example
Again, example>advice, you must be a positive role model for your family through your actions, not just your words. Show your loved ones what it means to live a fulfilling and meaningful life by pursuing goals and passions that align with your values. It is in this willingness to live a free life that you show those around you that they too, are free to break from the path and do what they want, how they want.
Make the commitment today to become the best family man possible and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can build stronger families and a better world since families are the cornerstone of every society, in every country.
It's not just about being a breadwinner or providing financial stability; it’s about being a strong family man who is committed to building a strong and resilient family unit. It's about leading by example, providing emotional support, prioritizing family time, and owning up to our mistakes.
By doing the above, we can create a supportive, loving, and thriving family dynamic that our loved ones can rely on.
- Zachary Small
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You and Tex looks so great!!!