The working life of a financial consultant can be hectic as he/she is often overloaded with appointments, meetings, phone calls and piles of paper works, not forgetting the additional networking events they have to attend. Although the job can be flexible at times, it can still be a challenge to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
In this article, I spoke to financial consultant Steven Chen, a father of 3 kids aged 5, 8 and 10, who has been in the financial industry for ten years to share his parenting view as a modern dad.
Describing his parenting style as more authoritative, he is a doting father who cherishes his parenting journey.
What do you love the most or enjoy the least about being a dad?
Seeing my three kids play among themselves happily without worry is what I love most. Sibling rivalry is common but I enjoy least when they bicker over fairness as I want them to understand sometimes one kid may need something more than the other.
What are some of your favourite activities to do with your children?
I usually spend time playing various types of ball games with them and will also engage them with fun-filled activities in the playground.
What were some of the difficulties you faced when you were a dad or a new dad?
Finding a work-life balance is challenging but I will always make an effort to spend quality time with them because I know it is important for their childhood.
Share with us one incident or something you learnt about parenting that really impacted you. (it could be some mistakes you regret doing or something you discovered about yourself after becoming a parent)
I discovered that my first child tends to be less generous towards her siblings so I learned not to over-pamper them and find ways to educate them sharing is caring, especially for the first child.
Do you think being a dad is tougher now as compared to the old days? Reasons?
It would not be a fair comparison. In the old days, a dad used to work hard for family livelihood. Nowadays, with the progression of society, it is important for a dad to spend quality time with children and build their character.
As a financial consultant, how do you teach your children about money?
- Save up what they have left after spending their allowance on lunch at school
- Look and compare the price of different things in supermarket or malls so that they are aware of the value of money
- Educate them to spend wisely on the things they need as money does not grow on trees
What is the best thing a father can do for his child(ren)?
I strongly believe the best thing will be being a good role model for them.
What are your dreams for your child(ren)?
I really hope my children can find the things they love to do in life and wish each of them to become a person with integrity and compassion.
Becoming a new father can be a daunting task, what tips and advice would you give them?
Enjoy every moment of sweetness in life even when times are tough.
Complete this sentence. The best thing about being a father is…
The best thing about being a father is to plant a seed inside your child and watch them grow and blossom.
We thank Steven for his great sharing. We believe every father wants to do what is best for their children but ultimately it is the amount of quality time they spend with their children that will stay in their hearts forever.
Also read: The Greatest Parenting Lessons Learnt…..As a Mum of One
