18 Valuable Lessons About Fathering from Writers and Publishers

As a Fatherhood Advocate, most of what I learn about being a dad is from totally unrelated areas. A few years ago, I was at the Independent Book Publishers Association’s (IBPA), Publishing University. It was one on the most rewarding, and educational conferences I have ever attended!

​While I was there to learn about writing and publishing, I also learned lessons I can use to encourage better fathering.

Below are 18 things I learned, or were reinforced to me, at the IBPA Publishing University. They are from my scribbled notes and I could only attribute a few of these directly and some are just observations of mine.

So, in mass, I attribute the following 18 lessons to the speakers, members and staff of IPBA and encourage parents to learn from them!
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18 Invaluable Lessons for Parents!

1. Being around people who share your passion is invaluable


2. Encouragement is like rocket fuel


3. You can always learn from others


4. You always have something to contribute


5. People are excited to help those who want it


6. You must have values, a mission, and a plan


7. You’re always fighting the odds, so you can’t be lazy


8. There are a lot of ways to skin a cat


9. Don’t squat with your spurs on (also a book!)


10. You must have a platform (or you’ll never be found)


11. Be with your audience


12. Look into their eyes and be honest


13. Look for people who want your success


14. Maintain your position until circumstances change in your favor


15. A professional is an amateur who didn’t quit


16. Partner with experts


17. Do what you have to, even if you don’t like it


18. Share!

For the dads out there, are not these lessons useful for us as fathers? Even #9! 
Thank you IBPA!

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