If there is one thing Eric Cheong, our Lead Dad of the Week from Atlanta via Singapore, has learned, it’s that you have to experience the ups and downs of being a Lead Dad.
His wife Tanie Eio, IHRP-MP, a senior leader at UPS, has been posted to Hong Kong, Belgium and now Atlanta. Eric, as the Lead Dad for their teenage daughter, has adapted, though some times better than others. Hong Kong allowed him to continue his corporate coaching business. Belgium did not. Now, in the U.S., he’s finding success again. It’s been hard at times.
But he’s also realized the important role he plays in their family. He chose to support his wife in her career and be ready to move when she’s had an opportunity.“
For some guys, they may have a very good job and they ask, Should I follow my wife’s career or hang on to mine?” he said. “That’s the toughest decisions you have to make. I’m not here to tell you what to do. When both parties agree, remember what you discussed before.”
Remember that agreement is important for the relationship. “Don’t say in arguments I didn’t want to come here, or I don’t have anything here for me,” Eric said. “When you say it it’s your emotions coming out, your frustrations coming out. Now that I’ve walked the path, I want to tell those who did it to remember it’s you who decided to go with her. If something goes wrong, solve it because your spouse relies on you.”
That’s sage advice, Eric. Welcome to The Company of Dads!
