Disciplining our children is what we do for them through love, not to them as punishment. Children may fuss and complain now about not being able to stay out late, while other kids are doing it. American author and motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar, and other successful parents advocate to be enthusiastic and have an exciting home so other children desire to play there. Zig did this so he could see who his children were hanging out with and know what they were up to. Zig’s positive role modeling toward authentically being morally upright and doing good deeds, more so than just talking, allowed others to imitate that goodness observed.⁷ Walking the walk is much more influential and inspiring than only talking the talk. When our children become older, while not acquiring poor habits or succumbing to bad influences or harmful temptations, they will be grateful indeed. Don’t act or talk like someone you admire—be that person.

Moreover, teach kids they can accomplish incredible feats by removing the ‘t’ in can’t. Show them how to live by living and being the example. Teaching good money, moral, spiritual, relational, principal, health, and character habits will vastly improve long-term quality of life. No better instruction exists than children observing your consistent healthy, positive habits and lifestyle. Your kids will thank you for it, even if they don’t appreciate or know it yet.