Since the birth of his daughter, Jones has had a number of career-changing events occur in his music career. The rising artist recently opened for Juice World on tour and is working with super producer, Harmony Samuels on new music.
Although both the career and schedule of Shaffer Jones is are picking up, Jones always makes time for the most important people in his life … his children.
What is your approach to fatherhood?
Honestly I’m more on the friend side. I chose that route because I knew that’s what I needed as a kid. I always wanted to know why I couldn’t do certain things.
Adults think asking “why” means your kid is questioning authority when in actuality kids ask questions so they can learn the right way to do things. It helps them grow into more understanding adults.
How has fatherhood changed who you are as a person?
Before fatherhood, I was a hot mess. I was selfish, closed off, and arrogant. All of that changed after the birth of my first daughter. I’m more patient and selfless. She made me a man. I learned both responsibility and accountability.
When it comes to protecting yourself both mentally and spiritually, what advice do you give to your children?
Spiritually I tell her to always trust God. First of all, I ask her if she knows who God is. I tell her who and what I think God is.
Mentally I tell her to get to know herself. Getting to know yourself means you are going to learn things about yourself that you won’t like.
When you know yourself and your shortcomings, you’ll give others more benefit of the doubt. You’ll also have the ability to check yourself against your mental mirror.
What piece of advice have you given your children you know actually stuck with them?
I told them to strive to be the best. I also tell them to stay focused on your goals and pay attention to what’s going on around you. My oldest is 11 and is first in her school district as far as her reading level. It seems like my advice is sticking with her.
What are your hopes for your children?
Oh man. I hope and pray that they grow up to be respectable, opulent, and intelligent young ladies. I know that nobody is perfect, but I hope they don’t turn their mistakes into habits.
I want them to dream. I don’t want them to just go to school and get a job. I want them to try things. I want them to be bold and never let anyone tell them that women aren’t strong or good enough.
