Got into a discussion at work about taking responsibility for mistakes versus making excuses. Most guys just blame circumstances. I was raised that a man admits when he screws up, apologizes, and fixes it. Simple. But it seems like that approach gets you nowhere in the corporate world. How do you teach your sons to have integrity and character when the system doesn't reward it?
Raising boys to have integrity and actually follow through on their word is one of the most important things we can do as dads. It's getting harder with everything pulling them in different directions, but it's worth the effort.
Honor isn't dead, it's just harder to see sometimes. Teaching boys to take responsibility for their actions even when it's uncomfortable - that's exactly what the world needs more of.
The excuse-making thing really hit me. I catch myself doing it too when something goes wrong at work, then I realize my kids are watching. Now I try to just own it and move on. That's the example they need.
I've noticed the same thing in co-parenting. When I mess up something with logistics or parenting time, I don't make excuses to my ex or my kids. Just fix it and do better. Sets the tone for everything.
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That's something I try to instill in my kids too. Personal responsibility is becoming a lost art, and it's sad. The world needs more guys willing to own their mistakes instead of finding someone else to blame.