The Good Life – July-August 2014

some extra effort and expense, whether that means texting,
video conferencing, or your preferred way of staying in
touch. Set up regular times for phone calls, so everyone can
be available and expect your call. Be creative and find new
ways to connect.
3. Conduct yourself with integrity. This might seem totally
separate from your role as a father or a husband, but it’s
all connected. Doing what’s right when you’re away from
your children makes you a better man, which makes you a
better father. Your self-discipline and character will make a
difference in you life in many ways, and will spill over to
your kids.
Even when you aren’t with your children or you have
legal challenges with their mom, do the right thing and keep
your poise. You will bless your kids by maintaining a high
reputation and a virtuous life.
Action Points
• If at all possible, shorten your work trip. Can you
squeeze in a late meeting and then fly home late
instead of waiting another day?
• Before a business trip, be sensitive to your wife’s
feelings and find ways to lighten her load in some way.
Also, do a few special one-on-one things with each of
your kids. Build up a reservoir of time so your absence
isn’t quite as difficult.
• Tell your children about why you’re leaving —
what you hope to accomplish and the bigger-picture
benefits it will bring to clients, consumers, or families.
• Leave your family members small gifts or notes of
encouragement that they’ll find when you’re gone.
• Put some planning into your re-entry back home.
The first few minutes after you walk in the house can
make a big difference. (And save discipline issues and
bills until later.)
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