Respect has to be earned, not demanded - thoughts?

J

2w ago1 min read

My dad used to say respect is automatic just because you're the father and the man of the house. I'm trying a different approach with my kids and asking them to respect me through my actions and consistency instead of expecting it based on my position. My old man thinks I'm soft for this. But I think real respect, the kind that actually matters, comes from showing up right day after day. Am I off base here or is this just the evolved version of old school values?

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Comments(3)

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WWalter T.Regular2w ago

That's a solid approach. My 6yo already has opinions about everything, so demanding respect without earning it would just create resentment. Leading by example feels way more effective.

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MMike R.New Dad2w ago

My 12yo definitely calls me out when I'm being hypocritical, and honestly I respect that. Kids can tell the difference between genuine respect and just throwing your weight around.

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EEric V.Regular2w ago

I'm doing the same thing with my kids. My old man expected us to just fall in line, but I've found that showing my kids respect first makes them way more likely to listen when it actually matters. Seems like you're on the right track.

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