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KNOW YOUR BOND:
Everyone is an individual, so each father-daughter or Father Son relationship is unique. Assess yours clearly, without comparing how others may be having their relationship with their dad. If you have always had a staunch, strict father. He is not going to turn into “daddy cool” overnight. It is up to you to work out ways to bond within the board framework of your existing relationship, and work on changes slowly. Every situation is unique, and you are the master of your situation. |
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COMMUNICATE:
Sometimes, the only way you can be a good daughter is by communicating well with him. This does not mean that you need to call or mail him everyday, yet you must take enough time out. It should be something that you and he are fine with, and not just any time that you are free. Remember, you might not be friends with your dad, and that is perfectly fine; yet a little "friendliness" goes a long way in strengthening your love and bond with him. So make calls, sit with him to talk whenever possible, and be a good listener. Make your points by explaining them to him, not by fighting it out. |
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TAKE TIME OUT:
Spouse and children aside, your father should be an intrinsic part of your scheme of things. If you live in the city, meet him few times a month and re-live good times. May be there was this one particular ice-cream parlor your dad loved taking you to, or a particular TV show that you both enjoyed - plan and revisit. Old memories strengthen old relationship. |
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LISTEN:
Parents do not always expect their children to follow them - not any more – yet they do expect you to listen to them. You might not always agree with your father's ideas and thoughts, but paying him attention is something you can do. Do not make him feel unimportant, because he is not. At least he deserves respect from you. Whenever possible, try to follow through with his suggestions – remember he is older and has more life experience; hence you have all the more reason to listen to what he says. People who have already lost their father, know how important his suggestions and support were. |
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MAKE HIM FEEL WANTING:
Your dad may not call you and say "I love you", but that does not mean that you cannot. Don’t assume that he will always be available for you at the drop of a hat, yet a little dependence is likely to make him feel good and wanted. Also, if he was always there for your birthdays when you were growing up, you should also make the effort to be there for his next birthday. |
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DONOT BE NEGATIVE:
You might have had your share of ups and downs with your father, but learn to let go. In case you have not bonded that much when you were growing up, do it now - it is never too late to begin a new .Go beyond the ‘papa you love bro more’ sort of sentiment - it's time to forget and move on. If you do not, trust me, you will regret heavily and would never be able to forgive yourself when he is not there. |
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