February 15, 2021
3 Ways to Become a Leader in the Home
Did you know that 73% of parents say parenting is their greatest challenge in life?1 Many students balance work and school along with being a parent. That’s a lot of responsibility! BYU-Pathway Worldwide’s mission is “to develop disciples of Jesus Christ who are leaders in their homes, the Church, and their communities.” So how can we, as students and disciples of Jesus Christ, become better leaders in our homes?
1. Give positive feedback often
Positive feedback brings peace into a home.
As parents, the effect of a kind word or compliment shouldn’t be overlooked. Elder Richard G. Scott said, “Express love and gratitude often. That will make life far richer and more pleasant and purposeful. Don’t withhold those natural expressions of love.”2
Family members need to hear they are loved and appreciated. Pointing out positive behavior encourages children to repeat the same behavior. This cycle of positive reinforcement will bring love and peace to your home.
2. Don’t underestimate your influence
Parents often underestimate how closely they are watched by their children. It starts as early as birth! Newborns will copy their parents’ movements like sticking out their tongue or smiling. Since children constantly mimic, consider the positive impact you’re having on your children by gaining an education. You’re not only telling your children education is important — you’re showing them. You are your child’s first and most impactful teacher.
You are your child’s first and most impactful teacher.
Taking an extra moment to be observant and proactive will create a positive environment for teaching your children. The Lord said, “Bring up your children in light and truth.” When you do your best to teach them, your children will be listening.3
3. Plan meaningful one-on-one time with each family member
One-on-one time with your children will promote love and deepen your relationship. This special time you share together will help your child strengthen his or her identity. President M. Russell Ballard said, “[Family councils] will give each family member a feeling of worth and importance; and most of all they will assist us to be more successful and happy in our precious relationships.”4
Get to know your children. Ask them about their joys and their fears. Ask them about their friends and what they learned that day. As you talk with love, you will gain their confidence and affection.
The Lord will help you lead.
A divine calling
Time passes quickly — that’s why it’s important to make an effort every day. President James E. Faust said in regards to parenting, “To me, there is no more important human effort.”5 The calling to be a parent is a divine one. It’s not an easy calling, but with the help of the Lord we can become successful leaders in the home.
What tips do you have for leading in the home with love? Comment below!
Comments on "3 Ways to Become a Leader in the Home"
thank you for your wonderful experience
Often follow-up is helpful in starting conversation in the family, thank you.
Thank you for this wonderful message.
Hello. My children know their concerns matter to me. At the moment that anything happens I will be there to talk. Many times my oldest child called me late at night saying, “Mother I need to talk,” and the Lord helped me develop a deep listening and understanding to embrace my son’s concerns, as the Savior would have done. My son’s confidence in me grew in strength and love.
Great, that is why I’m learning parenting, so that I can be a good parent and leader in my home.
If a parent has errands to do, like buying gas, or groceries, or getting a haircut, take a child with you. Car talk time is sometimes the best time of all.
Thank you for an additional good article. Exactly where else could anybody get this type of detail in such a perfect way of writing?
Thanks for sharing.
Please review our comment policy.