STOP Making This Common MOTIVATION Mistake With Your KIDS

Author: Larry Hagner
Published: Fri 25 Apr 2025
Episode Link: http://gooddadproject.libsyn.com/stop-making-this-common-motivation-mistake-with-your-kids

How often do we wait for motivation to show up—especially when it comes to our kids?

I’ve been there too, thinking it would just "hit me" when the time was right. But here’s what life has taught me: real motivation isn’t found; it’s built through action.

In this episode, I’m getting real about what motivation actually looks like when you’re a dad. I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes story of how my teenage son challenged me to step way outside my comfort zone — all the way to a bodybuilding stage. It wasn’t about winning medals or getting a six-pack. It was about showing up, pushing through the hard days, and keeping promises to myself and to him.

I’ll break down the three simple but powerful rules we lived by during this journey—rules that helped us grow stronger as individuals and even closer as father and son. This isn't just about fitness. It’s about choosing connection, ownership, and legacy, even when it’s uncomfortable.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, waiting for a spark to get started, this one’s for you.

Become the best husband and leader you can: www.thedadedge.com/mastermind

In this episode, I'll explore:

Why waiting for motivation can cost you priceless moments with your kids.
The three simple rules that helped us grow stronger—on and off the bodybuilding stage.
Why keeping promises to yourself builds lasting trust with your family.
How saying "yes" to challenges can create memories that last a lifetime.

Here's what research supports about the power of action and intention:

Studies show that couples who engage in regular, small acts of kindness report a 28% increase in relationship satisfaction.
Research indicates that setting specific, shared goals increases the likelihood of improved communication and intimacy by 35%.
Prioritizing quality time has been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness in relationships by 20%.

If you're ready to stop waiting for motivation and start actively building a stronger, more connected marriage, this episode is for you. Let's take that first step together.

Key Takeaways