Do you want to know what is one of the biggest struggles we face as dads? I’m sure I don’t have to tell you this, but I see one of the biggest struggles being our willingness to be the example to our kids.

Let me give you an example. We have a pretty large family. That means there is a lot to do, but it also means that there are plenty of people to spread out the responsibilities in order to get everything done.

Each of our kids have chores. But so do my wife and I. We each have areas of responsibility that must be accomplished. This week, my daughters are on kitchen duty, while my son is responsible for vacuuming the house. My area is the basement. My wife is on laundry.

My son spent some time with a friend recently, and he saw a different scenario in that home. Each of those kids had chores, but the parents didn’t; at least not while he was there. He asked me about it later, wondering why that dad didn’t do anything to help around the house.

Fortunately, I’ve had the foresight to anticipate that question, and keep myself involved in what happens around the home. My son sees that, and knows that I do so. He sees my example because it happens all the time.

He also sees me be the example out in the community. I volunteer and help out in various aspects around our community. My kids see that and know that making an impact in the lives of others is important. He sees my example.

But the flip side of this is true as well. When he sees my temper, or my laziness, or my other failures, I’m being the example then, too. Our goals as dads is to be the best example. Our kids are watching us at all times. When we succeed, they notice. When we fail, they notice that too.

As dads, leading by example isn’t really an option. We can’t choose not to be an example. We can only choose what kind of example we want to be. Either good or bad, our kids are watching. And what we display, they will very likely emulate.

Being the best example we can be is not only desirable. It is critical.

Be deliberate, Dad!

What kind of example are you to your kids? How do you lead by example in your home? You can leave your thoughts in the comments by clicking here.