Steve Canal has achieved success as an author and businessman. However, his greatest achievements are being a husband and father. Canal recently shared his thoughts on the importance of being a father and leaving a legacy.
What legacy are you leaving for your children and the children of your community?
I’m living the legacy I want to leave for my son Saint Cash Canal and the children of my community. I live by purpose, passion and pure faith. The idea of loving what you do every day and truly believing in the impact that your journey will leave is invaluable. It’s bigger than you or I, it always has and it always will be. When you’re internally aligned, the world makes more sense, your priorities fall in line and every move you make towards growth you make to last forever for generations to come.
How would you describe your Fatherhood culture?
My fatherhood culture is one of selfless acts and love. It’s an understanding that if the people around you are happy and filled with information and resources to grow, the world becomes a better place. Smile, share, appreciate and repeat understanding that everything you do is done for a reason.
From a father’s perspective, what two books would you recommend every child read?
For the elementary school children Little Professor Skye for sure to help expand their imagination and creativity. For the kids who have more of an advanced vocabulary, I would suggest Think and Grow Rich or the newer version of the book The Mind of a Winner.
Which fatherhood experiences have taught you the most about yourself?
The first month of a newborns life are very challenging but amazing at the same time. It forces you to pay attention to details, pushes you to the limits plus more and clearly defines what unconditional love really means. It allows you to focus on the why pushing you forward. The why in this case being the bond between father and child and the importance of being present.
Name one life lesson that no one taught you, but should have.
People will do and say whatever it takes to survive. Take the time to research and fully understand who and what you’re dealing with for future considerations.
When it comes to protecting yourself at all times, physically and mentally, what would you tell your children? Balance is a key to life. Value your time and mental space. Don’t allow mental terrorists to drain your energy. Hit the reset button from time to time and come back with a fresh perspective each time.
Share one of your fondest memories you’ve experienced with your father, grandfather or father figure.
One of my fondest memories with my father that sticks with me to this day was running into his arms during a doctor visit because I was scared and him reinforcing his love for me through a bear hug and at that moment knowing that everything was going to be ok because he was my protector and I had nothing to fear. My son is only 10 months old but I hug him like that everyday so he can feel that same love and protection.
Why is writing down your fatherhood goals for life so important? Share your most valued and treasured fatherhood goal.
Goals are important in general. Goals keep you honest through your day to day actions. The important part is putting systems in place to achieving those goals. As a father, the goals you set for your family should be priority and your yellow brick road on your life path.
