5 Ways My DAD Made Me Who I Am Today

Last month for Mother’s Day, I paid tribute to my Mom for all that she’s done to be a great example and influence in my life. It’s only natural that I tell you how my Dad has shaped my life as well. So today, on Father’s Day, I hope this post inspires you to think about your Dad, past or present, or even someone who is or was a great male role model or father figure in your life.

In no particular order, by his words and actions, my Dad taught me the importance of these five things:

1. Reputation

Growing up, my Dad stressed the importance of a good reputation. To this day, I realize that everything I do or say either strengthens or dilutes the perception those have of me. Consequently, I try to live a life of authenticity and congruency in public and in private. I pay attention to who I’m being, both in public and behind closed doors, so that I can live a life of integrity and feel good about myself when my head hits my pillow each night. My clients look to me to provide them positivity, love, support, encouragement, and hope, so I make sure I am living those values as well. As I continue to pursue the best version of myself, I’m able to uplift and support my clients in becoming the best versions of themselves as well.

2. Quality

My Dad has been a business owner, teacher, and leadership trainer. He currently works for Nordstrom and won Employee of the Year two years in a row. The truth is, I believe he could work for any company and win that award because my Dad is going to give you his BEST. He also taught me the importance of promising and then making sure you deliver on your promise. In other words, if you say you’re going to do something, do it! And not just do it, but do it exceptionally well. Because of my Dad, I also value quality, professionalism, and extraordinary service, and have built a coaching practice that exudes those same values.

3. Appreciation

“Be a giver, not a taker.”

“Always say thank you.”

“Never expect others to pay for you. Always offer to pay for yourself.”

Giving and showing appreciation is something that is very important to me because of my Dad. As a result, rather than looking for ways I can take, I’m constantly aware of opportunities to give and serve, especially those who have chosen to be a part of my community of like-minded and like-hearted women. I love my community and care about them tremendously. They feel this because they know they are appreciated and that I value my time with them. It’s an honor to serve them as they grow and transform. Being a part of my client’s journey is a fulfilling experience and in this way, I find myself receiving so much from them.

4. Education

I didn’t plan on going to college. In fact, my high school didn’t really encourage us to pursue higher education. But, my Dad is a scholar and values education, so I came home one day and there sat a college application for me. I filled it out and four years later graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree. Three years after that, I earned a Master’s Degree, all because my Dad told me to fill out a college application one evening. I’ll also always appreciate my Dad teaching me the importance of proper grammar and correct spelling from a very young age. What’s more, my Dad is a phenomenal public speaker. He knows how to capture his audience and is a great combination of serious and funny – my favorite kind of speaker. As I continue to grow as a speaker myself, I have a great example of the speaker I want to be because of him. When I speak, I feel like I’m an extension of him and as such, feel close to him when I’m on stage.

5. Loyalty

I’m an only child and therefore grew up in a small family. Like most families, we encountered our fair share of trials and tribulations as my parents did their best to make a good life. Regardless, there was something that never waned and that was my Dad’s loyalty to my mom and me. To this day, my Dad would do anything for us. As an adult looking back, I see all the things my Dad sacrificed for me. He turned down good jobs to watch me play sports throughout high school and college. Even when he couldn’t afford it, he bought me the best bat for softball, the best sneakers for basketball, the best laptop when they first came out, and the best (and safest) car on the market when I was in college. Because of my Dad’s example of loyalty, I do my best to be loyal to those who are in my life and give them my absolute BEST.

So, I want to say Thank You, Dad, for the huge influence you’ve had in my life. We are alike in so many ways and as an extension of you, I hope you’re proud of all your incredible values that have rubbed off on me which I now make an important part of who I am and who I’m becoming… I Love You!

I’d love to hear about YOUR dad or perhaps a great father figure who had an influence in your life. Please share!

Wishing you joyful health in your 50’s,
Kim