When people talk about role models or mentors, many mention celebrities, successful entrepreneurs, athletes. For me, the person who has influenced my life the most has always been and will always be my dad. He may not be globally famous, but the lessons he gave me shaped the kind of man I am trying to become today. In many ways, he practically handed me a manual on how to navigate life, responsibility and most especially discipline. I dare say he is a very disciplined man.
Growing up, I did not fully understand the value of many of the things he taught me. As a child, some of his lessons just felt strict. He constantly emphasized discipline and that life is a competition, the importance of carrying yourself properly no matter the situation. Back then, it really just used to go through one ear and out the next but thankfully i was able to lock in on his words as i started maturing.
One of the biggest things my dad also taught me was responsibility and never ever to be entitled in this life. He believed a man should not run away from responsibilities, whether they involve family, or are work related and he always taught me that actions have consequences. He always told me that being a man is not about acting tough or trying to dominate people. It is about being reliable, when people are looking for value or a way out, are you the name that pops up? and are you someone others can depend on. That lesson stayed with me deeply because society often gives young men distorted ideas about masculinity. My dad showed me a different version of strength, one built on discipline, integrity and focusing on what is important in life.
Another thing that inspired me about him was his resilience. No matter how difficult situations became, he never panicked and that is why my childhood was filled with innocence, i never had to grow up faster than my age and this is something i definitely want to give my children too. Let kids be kids. Looking back now, I realize there were probably many burdens he carried silently that I never even noticed as a child. Yet he still showed up every day and did what needed to be done. He also taught me the value of respect, not just respecting elders, but respecting everyone regardless of status. I watched how he treated people around him, and it showed me that character is revealed most clearly in how you treat those who cannot offer you anything in return. That lesson has influenced the way I interact with people today, i listen more than i speak.
In the end, the greatest achievement of my father may not be wealth or fame, It is the fact that he raised someone who genuinely understands the value of character and responsibility.