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.