“Do as I say, not as I do.”
One of the greatest forms of hypocrisy occurs when parents tell their children to live a certain way, yet do not live by the same standard.
I am not saying that parents need to be perfect, regardless of the standard under consideration. However, there needs to be consistency.
Children push limits as close to the line as possible and measure every action by the consistency of parental guidance.
The foundation must be laid here. When we fail, admit it, apologize, and make restitution. Never excuse it…ever!
Help children understand the purpose behind the standard and live consistently by it.