I think most parents have moments of uncertainty or even fear about sharing their mistakes with their children. But we shouldn’t let our bad choices, or the fear of looking like a hypocrite, stop us as parents. Here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid to share your mistakes with your kids. First, history is a good teacher. Your past bad choices don’t disqualify you from opposing those choices now. Being transparent about your past can strengthen your arguments in the present. Second, opposing your past doesn’t mean condemning yourself in the present. Sometimes the fear of feeling judged can be an obstacle. But parenting is about guiding your kids in the way they should go in the present.

For more on this topic on my blog, go to Fear Not: Your Kids Can Learn From Your Mistakes.