Raising Strong Women: Lead By Example
I switched my workout time today from late evening to morning. This gave me the opportunity to talk to Doodlebug about why mommy makes time to exercise.
As a toddler she may not always understand why this special time is important. So, I break it down and tell her mommy exercises so I feel better. And I exercise so I’m able to spend much more time with her, sister & Dada in the future.
She still tells me “no” sometimes. But I workout anyway.
And, 9 times out of ten, she joins in at some point.
You know, I originally started my fitness journey for me. But by focusing on me, I am actually becoming the wife, mother, and woman I want my daughters to be.
So sometimes changing up my routine is a good thing! When I workout at night, they are always in the bed. But when I switch to a daytime workout, they always see me.
By doing this I am showing my girls growth, imperfection, and self-worth. All which are EXTREMELY important.
And if I don’t show my daughters the way, who will?
There’s a saying,
“Be The Good You Want To See In The World”
This could not be more true when it comes to raising our children.
I want to challenge you to be that example for your family, friend….or stranger!
How will you will you lead?
Are you doing this already?
Let me know in the comments.
6 Comments
Amber Douglas
Yes! I needed this! I am so apprehensive about exercising in front of my daughter because I know how she may hinder. However, you make such a good point about how it’s setting an example of taking that time to exercise.
theBourbonCactus
Hey, Amber! I am so glad this was helpful to you. Ya know, I used to be so embarrassed to exercise in front of my girls (and my husband). But I realized hiding or “waiting” to workout, only made the taboo subject of weight loss worse and taught my girls nothing.
Morayma
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this. Thank you so much for writing such a fantastic post….really hits home since I have a little girl of my own. I look forward to reading more from you! 🙂
theBourbonCactus
Thank you so much Morayma! Being is a girl mom is hard work and we gotta really step up to the plate.
Cailey
I love this! It is so important to take care of yourself so that you can be the best mama for your little one. I also have a daughter and think that the best way to parent is to lead by example as well. You are doing a great job! Keep it up, I love your determination.
theBourbonCactus
Thank you, Cailey! I definitely want my girls to make good decisions in life and “do as I say, not as I do” is not a good approach to teaching. So I’m really bettering myself, as well as the kids, by walking the walk.