Dad, what will it take to make this year the best ever for you and your kids?

The media has a New Year tradition of remembering well-known people who died during the past year. A few years back, one of those people was a man who really seemed to “get it” as a father, but who lost his life in a tragic accident. He was committed to his family and seemed to be a very positive role model for his sons. He made time with his family a high priority even in the midst of a busy and successful career. It was a huge loss for his family members—as it is whenever a parent passes away—and the community as well.

It doesn’t really matter who it was; similar tragedies happen quite often in this world. And here at the start of a new year, as many of us are reflecting on our lives and our fathering over the past twelve months, taking note of some successes and struggles and maybe even a tragedy or two that impacted us, there’s a bigger point to consider and live with every day:

Our time on Earth is unpredictable, and we need to be committed to making the most of every opportunity we have to invest in those we care about the most.

When it comes to your kids, time is the most precious gift you can give them. And since none of us is guaranteed a tomorrow …

Make sure today counts.

Maybe that reminder is so commonplace that you tend to take it for granted, so here’s a more practical suggestion about how you might carry that out: Start a new tradition with your child.

Set aside time each day—whether it is five minutes or thirty minutes—to spend one-on-one time together. Maybe give your time together a unique name, like “Emma’s Time,” “Daily Hoops Challenge, Day 37,” “Jump on Daddy Time,” or “Help Dad Suffer through Two Miles on the Running Trail.” Have your child help you come up with a fun name for it, and maybe have a different one for each day of the week. And maybe with an older child you’ll have to settle for two or three times a week. But make every effort to make it happen regularly—and often.

Need more ideas? Maybe that’s a good chance to let your child take the lead. That could mean wrestling with your four-year-old son. Maybe your teenager daughter will share her new favorite song with you. Get a book of short, kid-friendly stories or devotionals and read it with your 10-year-old. Carry or push the baby around the block every night after dinner. Making the commitment and spending the time is usually more important than the activity you choose.

A big key to making it work:

Make sure to turn off your phone and other devices, and put away any other distractions. Be intentional and consistent. Protect that time together at all costs. Think of that time each day as if you’ll never have another chance to do this with your child. (Someday, that might be true.)

Dad, this commitment really needs to stick. Have a sense of urgency about this and don’t put it off! Make it a priority to build a strong bond with each of your kids. Make this year one they will never forget—for all the right reasons.

What’s one new commitment you want to make this year as a father? Share your thoughts and give feedback to other dads on our Facebook page here.