Ep. 102 – Playing Hooky With Your Kid!
In Episode 102 of the Empowering Choices Parenting Podcast, titled “Playing Hooky With Your Kid,” the hosts dive into the nuanced topic of occasionally skipping work or school to spend quality time with children. The episode begins with a linguistic exploration of the term “hooky,” tying its origins to both self-care and the notion of stealing time for oneself. Lucas notes, “You’re kind of doing it on your own, and then you’re kind of like stealing time maybe.”
The conversation shifts to the practical and ethical considerations of taking time off from responsibilities to be with one’s children. Joshua discusses a personal anecdote, revealing, “I canceled recording a podcast because I had to run home to be with my kid,” highlighting the sometimes spontaneous need to prioritize family over work.
Erik shares a personal story, emphasizing the importance of being present in children’s lives during significant moments, whether they are distressing or celebratory. He advocates for using personal days or vacation time to support and bond with children, stressing, “It’s a huge impact in their life.” This perspective is contrasted with societal expectations that often prioritize perfect attendance and constant productivity.
Lucas and Erik discuss the potential consequences of not being flexible with personal time, especially in the context of parenting. They explore scenarios where rigid adherence to schedules can negatively affect relationships and personal well-being. Erik reflects on past experiences where his flexibility as a parent was beneficial, mentioning, “If my dad had taken time off work and taken me out just to have fun…that would have meant the world.”
The episode concludes with a broader reflection on the value of prioritizing relationships over rigid schedules. Lucas encapsulates the sentiment by saying, “No one gets to the end of their life and thinks to themselves, I wish I’d spent more time at work.” The hosts encourage listeners to consider using their time in ways that strengthen family bonds, suggesting that personal time well spent can be far more rewarding than adhering strictly to professional obligations.
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