25 Things I Need To Teach My Son

Raising kids is a challenge in our modern era. More so than ever before as we learn from the past and re-shape the future.

Parents of girls face countless obstacles to address from body image, to consent,  to the glass ceiling, and most of them are doing an amazing job raising strong, intelligent young women.

As the father of a  beautiful boy though, I am on a quest to raise a good man - one who is kind, thoughtful and well-rounded but still strong and proud of who he is.

Raising a good boy to become a good man is a great responsibility, but it is also a wonderful privilege - one that I am determined to do to the very best of my abilities.

My goal is to raise the kind of man that will make the world a better place, a lofty aspiration indeed, but I figure it's worth the effort.

Here are 25 things I want him to know.

 

1. Dream Big

If science fiction has taught us anything, it is that imagination can become reality.

 

2. Big Dreams Require Big Work

Don't let challenges stop you from achieving the life you want.

 

3. You Are Special

You are uniquely you and that means something.

 

4. But You're Not The Centre Of The Universe

Don't let your ego rule your life.

 

5. How To Cook

A man should always be able to feed himself and his family.

 

6. How To Use Tools

Making and fixing and making things with your own hands is an invaluable skill.

 

7. How To Throw A Ball

You don't have to be an athlete but it's important to be active, be competitive and be a team player.

 

8. How To Be Tidy

Do your dishes, fold your clothes and scrub the toilet. You need to be able to look after yourself.

 

9. Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder

Don't let outside forces like the media and peers tell you what's attractive to you.

 

10. How To Dance

A party is always more fun if you can move to the music and no-one hates a dancer.

 

11. No Means No

Clear, unambiguous consent is mandatory, every time. No exceptions.

 

12. Be Kind

Always take the time to help people in need. If not for the grace of God...

 

13. Care For The Earth

It is the only home we have.

 

14. Be Courteous

Holding doors never goes out of style. For women, men or children. Courtesy is the secret to a connected society.

 

15. Give A Firm Handshake

Your handshake tells people all they need to know.

 

16. Be Friendly

Look people in the eye. Smile. Talk. Listen.

 

17. Say "Please" And "Thank You"

Not just with strangers, but with those close to you. It shows that you are thinking of them consciously.

18. Listen

It's not just about waiting for your turn to speak, it's about hearing what someone has to say.

19. Be A Lifelong Learner

There is always more to know. Ask questions. Be curious.

 

20. Say "Sorry" And Take Action

Never be too proud to admit when you've made a mistake and take action to right your wrongs.

 

21. Express Yourself

Don't be afraid to show emotions other than anger. It actually is okay to cry.

 

22. Laugh

Never underestimate the value of a sense of humour.

 

23. Take Action

Words are meaningless without action. Be a man of action.

 

24. Stand Tall

Stand up for yourself, and stand up for others.

 

25. Stay Strong

Do the right thing even when it's difficult.

 

 

Shouldn't be too hard...