Stepping into the role of benevolent CEO

Thursday, January 12th, 2012 8:30 AM

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By Melissa Black Ford

Parent Coach

The job of a CEO is four-fold: S/he establishes budgets, builds teams, creates culture, and sets strategy and vision.

Sounds like I just described a parent, right? 

Parents are the leaders in their families, but many parents shy away from this role when their kids apply the pressure - throwing a fit, name calling, complaining, whining - making life generally miserable for all.

The truth is that being a parent isn’t about winning a popularity contest; it’s about providing strong, loving guidance, which is easily accomplished if you step into the role of CEO. 

Banish from your mind those erroneous assumptions that a leader is an egomaniacal taskmaster or dictator. That’s not who you want to be or the most effective way to parent. 

Think in terms of a benevolent CEO:  

• A kind, compassionate CEO can firmly and lovingly set limits and follow through even in the face of her child’s unhappy responses.  
• A caring, thoughtful parent can respectfully listen to her child’s requests yet trust her own inner wisdom in making decisions.

Standing in your power as a loving, caring parent allows you to realize your visions for your child and, at the same time, create a family culture where you and your child can thrive.