Be the Role Model For Your Kids

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

28 Jun 2007 03:43 PM

Do you know what it means to be a healthy role model? Have you ever asked yourself what qualities your role models possess? Do you believe that values and actions are what you admire most about your role models or is it something else?

The simple truth is - to be a good role model, you shouldn't be critical or judgmental of the people around you. Instead, you demonstrate and live your beliefs so that others can see and appreciate them. Specifically, when we're talking about our kids - it's important to demonstrate making healthy choices - if you eat nothing but junk food, then turn around and tell your kids they can't eat junk food - your kids aren't going to believe what you say.

Do As I Do

You need to espouse a belief in do as I do - not do as I say. In the world of personal fitness, a personal trainer is usually someone in great shape. They look trim and fit, they have good musculature and generally they can perform just about any of the exercises they are going to ask you to do.

An out of shape personal trainer who can't exercise well or doesn't perform well - is not likely to do well in this business. Would you believe what they had to say? The truth is, you probably wouldn't. Because in a world where you stipulate do as I say and not as I do - you are demonstrating hypocritical behavior that at best will confuse your audience (in this case, your kids).

So don't just tell your kids to get off the sofa and go play - get off the sofa and go play with them.

Don't just tell your kids to get active - get active with them.

Don't just tell your kids not to eat that junk food and to cut back on the sofa - make healthy choices yourself and invite them to join you, rather than just following your directions.

Do you know how to be a good role model for your kids?

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Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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