5. Admit Your Mistakes (Steinberg, 173)

Doctrine & Covenants 121:37  “That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition,” ... “behold, the heavens withdraw themselves…”

2 Nephi 28:20 – 21 “For behold, at that day shall he rage in the hearts of the children of men, and stir them up to anger against that which is good. And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well – and thus the devil cheatheth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell.”

It is important in life to admit when you are wrong; this applies in your actions with children. If children never see you apologize then they will have a hard time doing so themselves. It is important for children to see that their parents are not perfect, so that you seem like a regular person. They will feel more comfortable coming to you when they have made a mistake or need to apologize. Never admitting you are wrong teaches your children to be prideful and stubborn. These are not qualities that we generally wish to impart on our children.

Another reason why it is important to admit your mistakes is that it gives you a reality check and shows you areas you can improve upon. If parents go around thinking they can do no wrong all of the nasty habits and bad relationship techniques will continue to grow and eat away at your family. We should not be ashamed of our mistakes, but instead use them as stepping stones to become better.