Sunday is Father’s Day, so I thought it would be a good time to delve into a few things that I’ve seen fathers in my life do that created success and happiness for them.

Happy fathers … 

Take Ownership. They don’t blame the circumstances, but rather understand that they created those circumstances … and have the power to change them by changing their thinking.

Communicate. Men of my father’s generation were conditioned to believe that expression was a sign of weakness. Successful fathers don’t bottle up their emotions. They express them.

Take Time Off. For men of my father’s generation, “putting your nose to the grindstone” and working 40 hours a week was a badge of honor. For men of my generation, being a “hard worker” has come to be defined as working 60 hours a week, never taking a break, and bringing your work with you on vacation (if we even take vacations … believe me, I’m still guilty as charged here). Successful fathers set aside time for themselves and their families first.

Slow Down. Constantly being “on the go” makes it almost impossible for the important people in a father’s life – their significant other, children, siblings, parents, and close friends – to keep up with them. When it comes to improving your health so you can show up for others, it can’t be done alone. And it’s going to be difficult – if not impossible – for your support system to help you if they want to walk with you but you’re always running.

Fill Your Cup First. The happiest and most successful fathers I know set aside time to take care of their own health. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so yours has to be filled first.

What’s the most memorable trait that you’ve observed in happy, successful fathers? Reply back and let me know. And, Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!