It’s Not What You Do—It’s HOW You Do It: The Parenting Hack My Nan Taught Me (That’s More Important Than Ever)

Let me hit you with the REAL parenting gold right off the bat: if your kids are only doing nice things because you’ve pushed, pulled, or bribed them—you’re missing the critical life lesson my late Nan drilled into me. It’s not just about what you do; it’s how you do it. And as I hit day 1,764 of running (yes, barefoot, every single day—on the mission to raise £1,000,000 for children’s causes!), I realise this old-school wisdom is exactly what our world needs right now.

Parenting Isn’t About Grand Gestures—It’s About Intent

Let’s rewind to Mother’s Day—a time we’re meant to shower mums with love and appreciation. My house was bustling: my kids made cards, picked out gifts, and even braved an early-morning shop run for pastries. Sounds perfect, right?

But here’s the kicker: it took more than a gentle nudge to get the kids involved. Cue the “Kevin and Perry” moans (all nostalgic 40-somethings know what I’m talking about!). Despite their good actions, the half-hearted attitude nearly spoilt the moment. It was a clear reminder that the spirit behind the act matters far more than the act itself.

Why “How You Do It” Changes Lives

When my Nan used to say, “It’s not about what you do, it’s how you do it,” she meant: kindness, thoughtfulness, and intent trump flashy gestures every time. You could give someone a mountain of gifts, but if it’s done with grumbling, reluctance, or simply because you have to, the emotional impact disappears.

On my mission to save children’s lives with every step and every mile, this principle might just be bigger than any marathon I could run. You see, thousands of fundraising challenges have been done before. But I’m not just chasing distance (40,075km—the full lap of the world!). I’m doing it barefoot, on consecutive days, with the sole purpose of spreading this message and saving as many young lives as possible. And the way I do it—the relentless positivity, the diary-style candidness, the lessons I share from my own family’s journey—is what captures hearts and inspires action.

If You’ve Got Teens, You Know EXACTLY What I Mean

Look, if you’re raising teenage children, you’ve probably seen it all: resistance, rolling eyes, and the classic moans when it’s time to reciprocate kindness. It’s so easy for them to miss the meaning behind good deeds. But as parents, it’s our role (and often our struggle!) to instil the lesson that HOW we show up for others is everything.

Trust me, I’m learning on the job. Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I stumble. But the conversation with my kids—reminding them to act from a place of genuine care—is one I hope will stick with them, long after the breakfast trays and gift wrap are gone.

Let’s Raise A Generation That Gets It

So parents, let’s not just focus on big results or tick-box moments with our kids. Let’s teach them to act with heart, to give freely, and—most importantly—to understand that kindness means doing the right thing the right way, no strings attached. The next time you see your children (or even yourself!) about to do something “just because it’s expected,” pause. Ask: are we doing this with genuine care?

Join Me—Because Every Step Matters

As I lace up (or should I say, “strip down”—barefoot, remember?) for another day of the Runpreneur Challenge, I’m not just chasing a distance. I’m chasing impact. I need your help to smash through our fundraising targets and save lives. More views, more shares, and more donations mean more children helped.

So here’s YOUR challenge:
If you believe in raising a generation who values how over the what, hit subscribe, share this post, drop a comment below, and let’s amplify this movement together!

Together, step by step, let’s teach our children—and remind ourselves—that the way we act is what truly changes lives. Stay positive, stay happy, and I’ll see you on the next run!