Father’s Day is fast approaching. It’s Sunday, June 18, for those of you who need a reminder.

My daughters are growing like weeds. They amaze me every day with their words, their actions, the sibling rivalry and sibling bonds that are developing even at their young ages, and of course their affection for dear old Dad (ese soy yo).

So what’s it mean to be a Dad?

• Dads have people that depend on them for all sorts of things. While these days Moms and Dads typically share “breadwinner” honors for the family, Dads are still leaned on heavily for financial support—from helping to keep a roof over the family’s collective heads and food on the table, to spotting the little ones a $5 bill for a treat at TCBY.
• Dads are also called on to be there emotionally. Sometimes it’s a just hug, a pat on the back for a job well done, or words of encouragement. Sometimes it’s as simple as listening. Sometimes it’s a lot more.
• There are times when Dad needs to be the leader—to show the way, teach lessons learned, and make the tough decisions. But Dad’s also need to know when to step back and let the little ones make their own choices and learn from their own successes and mistakes. It’s easier said than done, of course!
• Dads also need to be wise—and it’s the kind of wisdom gained from a lifetime of experiences. Each is a learning opportunity, and an opportunity to pass that knowledge on to the next generation. Your kids will never admit it, but Dads just seem to know “stuff.” They know how to rough house in the yard; they know how to ride a bike; they know how to throw a ball; they know how to wire up the cable box; they know how to eat ice cream. You name it, they know it!
• Dads can be role models for more than their own kids, too. If your family is like ours, there’s probably never a shortage of friends or extended family visiting your house or you visiting theirs. I’m talking sleepovers, afternoon playdates, sunny days on the beach or in the park, soccer games, and things like that. You see, Dads aren’t only looked up to for guidance by their own kids, but from their kids’ friends and the kids of their adult friends. Without even knowing it, it’s more than likely that your “Dad influence” reaches far and wide. Use it wisely!

As I think about it, being a Dad is a lot like being the boss of your own company (no disrespect to all the great Moms out there, of course). You’re the team leader. You’ve got people counting on you to do your job and keep the team and the company moving forward. When necessary you can be the cheerleader, wise old guru, or role model to offer encouragement, advice, and to show your team the way.

That’s what Dads do. That’s what good bosses do too.

As you prepare for Father’s Day and the inevitable backyard cookout or dinner out with the family, what is it about being a Dad that you can do more of to raise the bar for your relationship with your family and/or with your business team?

Share your thoughts and experiences here.

Paul June is King Monkey of BARREL O’MONKEYZ, a San Diego-based strategic marketing agency specializing in Sports and Active Lifestyle markets. We serve as a seasoned, outsourced marketing team for companies looking to ramp up sales and launch new products. Our barrel is full of talent and creative arms ready to prove we don’t just monkey around!