14 Things About Parenting

A list of what we know, but don't necessarily practice with our kids

Parenting has been on my brain a lot as we move into the swirl of December birthdays and Christmas. Even though our children are now adults and the rush from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day is not as intense, it’s still a natural time to reflect.

Several years ago, I wrote a list titled: “Parenting Things You Know, But Don’t Necessarily Practice.” I thought this advice would be good to pass down to my kids when they had children of their own (not any time soon, I hope).

Earlier this week, I stumbled across the list again while working on something completely unrelated and decided to post it here. Any thoughts, comments, and additions you have are welcome.

• Parenting is not a math problem. There are no definite right and wrong answers. It’s a matter of taking your best guess at a moment in time and going with that, all the while knowing you might have to change course at some point along the way.

• Each child is unique. Treat them as such.

• Experiences are more valuable than stuff.

• Embrace uncertainty. It's where creativity begins.

• Honesty is paramount. How you deploy it is a choice.

• Advocate rather than enable. Support your child's dreams, but don’t be a nightmare in the process.

• A young person is never too old for a hug

• Simple kindness is greatly underrated.

• Managing a family is like managing a staff, except that no one is a professional.

• Take responsibility for your actions and mistakes. A sincere apology can go a long way in mending wounds both small and large.

• Never forget what brought you to this point, or those who brought you.

• Don’t be afraid to call out someone when necessary.

• Be thankful, even when the day/week/month/year/decade sucks.

• Your influence — good and bad — will be felt for generations to come

What do you think of this list? Do you have anything to add? I would love to hear from you.