The best job title I have ever held is...

“Dad”

And I’ve been grateful to have this role for almost nine years. There are so many things I’ve learned and the skills I’ve developed at home that have transferred into my professional career.

Here are some that stand out the most to me:

Patience. Much like the many types of people and professionals you might work with, my two boys are on entirely different learning trajectories in their development; they just ‘work’ differently. When you approach conversations with presence and self-awareness and participate as an active listener, you’re better able to understand different personalities and adjust the way you work with anyone around you. A little patience goes a long way to building more successful and supportive relationships at work and home.

Empathy + Care. This has been an incredibly valuable lesson in my development. The beautiful thing about being a parent is that it often requires you to learn to put your own emotions and feelings aside to understand a child’s perspective on life and circumstances. Showing empathy and compassion for others is a great way to teach and lead. When my boys feel like I understand their frustration or point of view, they are much more involved and engaged in a resolution. It reminds me to take a different approach at work, to try to see other people’s opinions and viewpoints, and let them know that I appreciate their contributions. 

Discipline + Time Management. I thought I was busy before I had children – I had no clue. Kids, no different than most professionals, thrive by having a schedule or structure. It does not mean, however, that every single minute of every day is scheduled and documented. Just that there’s a plan in mind, a goal, we want to cross off the list before bedtime. Much like the workplace – sometimes the schedule doesn’t work out, and that’s OK, but routine creates good habits and greater discipline. Even when something isn’t overly exciting, a plan for the day gives you focus and momentum that helps drive your goals and provides a sense of accomplishment.

Enjoy the journey. Being a dad is the toughest job I have had, but it’s also the most fulfilling. There is no destination, and that is why you have to love the journey and enjoy the ride. You have to approach your career and professional life with the same frame of mind. If you are chasing the next title, job or promotion, nothing will ever be good enough, you’ll never be happy or proud of where you are. You will reach the next step and feel empty, so make sure that you enjoy what you do and love the grind if you want to feel any kind of fulfillment. 

Mike