"I Love You". There, I said it. It is now up to you to interpret the meaning of what I said. No matter what you decide there was and is some power from the hearing of those words that is undeniable. Even if it is to think "what the hell is going on here?" Is there more power in hearing those words than saying them? Thoughts?
When we hear it from our children when they are young, it lightens us up and that doesn't change as we grow older. The most common times, when older, is when we have the privilege to say and hear it to and from our life partners and that between a mother and son. I am sure that it differs in some way in different cultures and even in areas within that culture. As a dad in the West of Scotland we don't normally go in for such things however we tend to show it in different ways. If you are a fan of Still Game you will be aware of the awesome power of giving a Noogie.
Dads and sons relationships change when the son turns 23 (ish). This is when the dad's ambition for the son genuinely turns to "whatever makes you happy". That might be through parenting fatigue or maybe a sense that the son has the skills to make the primary decisions for themselves.
It's also by then we will know if the son's potential in sport will realistically allow him to become professional, which is every dad's dream at some point, especially if they were that way inclined themselves. I am fortunate that a good mate has 2 boys that followed him into professional football and I can view his delight and journey by proxy, and without envy.
The main aspect as a dad, is that your son finds his path and has the energy and drive to move towards it with positive intent. We find that at different times in our lives though. I probably didn't find mine until I was in my 40's. I am blessed that my son has found his early and impresses every day with his self sufficiency, work ethic and drive.
It's very hard for parents to teach their children anything through words. If you are a maturer (sic) person reading this then you appreciate how you were as a young adult in particular. Anywhere in the scale from a dreamer to a pain in the arse. What we can do is set an example. Kids pick up on our behaviours and tend to copy the good things and unfortunately the bad things. They see our habits and follow suit believing that this is their story too. It is our role as parents (aunts/uncles) to set the best example we can and seek help to change us for the good of our children.
That doesn't mean it always goes to plan. Kids revolt against rules, it's called growing up. Taking risks is the fastest way to learn and grow.
I digress as per. The power of three little words has been identified by advertisers as being powerful in hooking the buyer. Just Do It, Impossible is Nothing, Finger Lickin' Good, Taste the Rainbow. Town Called Malice (couldn't resist). We could have a cool quiz here.
You get the point I am sure. It's nice and neat and get's the message across in an efficient and effective way.
It is also good for coaching, "I am Enough" being a current trend, where the self talk can boost our thinking and behaviour and indeed our motivation. If you are inclined to mirror work, and if you aren't then you should try it, begin the day by looking in the mirror and saying three words of a loving, kind way to yourself is a fantastic way to give you a boost. Even if you know it to be a white lie, the power of saying it has amazing power. For one it stops you criticising yourself. You can start small and build it up as you become confident.
I use "Better Each Day" which tells me that even 1% better is moving forward. I have it written up on my board in my office. Remember how Habits form?
Homework:
Look in the mirror and say something nice to yourself.
Pick a 3 word motto for yourself.
Please comment here and let me see what you have got.