Life Lessons We’ve Learned from Dad

They’re teachers, they’re coaches, they’re chefs — but most importantly, they’re our dads. This Father’s Day, our team is sharing the important lifelong lessons that our dads have instilled in us throughout the years. Sure, it may be a daylong celebration, but the advice, words of encouragement and guidance they’ve gifted us will last a lifetime.

 

I had a happy memory of my dad last night. He often said, if you don’t watch the BBQ, your chicken will burn. Funny enough, he always burned the chicken.

 

 

As a kid, my dad consistently told me that the road to unintended consequences is paved with good intentions. Simply put, you never know what cards you’ll be dealt in life — so all you can do is keep your head up and be a good person.

 

 

My father always told me that patience is a virtue — which, of course, held even more validity when I became a father myself.

 

 

Growing up, my dad always said that a gentle hand will serve you much better in life than an iron fist — sheer words of wisdom that have stuck with me until this day.

 

 

My dad is a man of great faith. He always said that it could come in a variety of shapes and sizes — religion, people, your favorite sports team. Regardless of which one it is, faith is crucial in propelling you forward.

 

 

My father consistently taught me the importance of honesty and integrity. You can’t get by in life without both.

 

 

Some great fatherly advice I got was that you need to spend money to make money. Not sure if I should thank or blame him — maybe both?

 

 

My dad has always said to never stop educating yourself. There’s something new to learn every single day, even if you don’t think so.

 

 

If you’ve known my dad long enough, you’ve likely heard him say if you don’t ask, you don’t get. It’s his spin on Gretzky’s you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. But I’ve always preferred my dad’s version. 

 

 

My dad is the smartest man I know. Everything he does, he accomplishes at an elite level. That can be a tough act to follow, but he instilled in me this same commitment to excellence. For better or for worse, I strive for greatness in every aspect of my life. 

 

 

My dad always taught me to work hard and help others, both willingly and freely. I try to translate these lessons into nearly every aspect of my life, whether personally or professionally.

 

 

From an early age, my dad always stressed the value of hard work and determination. He immigrated here when he was very young and, despite all the challenges he faced, he persevered. He taught me and my siblings that family is the most important thing in life and that you need to work hard but love harder. I am so thankful for all the lessons he has taught me along the way and I’ll always strive to make him proud.