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3 Ways to Become a Leader in the Home

These three tips can help your home become a place of growth and love

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Did you know that 73% of parents say parenting is their greatest challenge in life? 1
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National Parent Survey Overview and Key Insights,” Zero to Three, June 6, 2016
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

Family Making Cookies
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
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Richard G. Scott, “The Eternal Blessings of Marriage,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011

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.

Man Holding His Child
You are your child’s first and most impactful teacher.

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.

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
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M. Russell Ballard, “Family Councils,” Ensign or Liahona, Apr. 2016

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.

Christ Sitting with a Child
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
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James E. Faust, “A Thousand Threads of Love,” Ensign or Liahona, Oct. 2005
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.