Attorney Craig Woodward
It’s Father’s Day! Today we thank dads everywhere for all of their hard work and dedication to their families each and every day. In honor of dad’s special day, we sat down with our very own Craig Woodward to discuss what it’s like being a dad, what advice he gives his own children and what tips he has for them for the future.
Craig Woodward is a Partner and Co-Founder of Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. Alongside his brother, Mark and his father, Arthur, the firm was founded in 1971 in Marco Island, Florida. Craig is a father to two girls, Heather and Amanda, both in their thirties, and step-daughter, Karie, who is in her forties. Throughout the years, he’s learned a thing or two about parenthood and is happy to share some helpful fatherly advice.
Q. What are some of your favorite activities to share with your children?
A. Traveling, boating and discussing world affairs.
Having common interests and being involved in the lives of your children is very important. Being able to participate in activities together strengthens the bond with them, and as they grow, helps them to trust you as a parent and listen to your advice.
Q. What are some of the challenges that you face as a father?
A. Now that the girls are grown up and live on their own, there aren’t many challenges.
The key to good parenting is to provide for your kids and teach them how to be independent as well. In doing so, they are more comfortable being out on their own and raising their own families, and hopefully passing down the same advice that you gave to them growing up.
Q. What career advice would you give to your kids?
A. I would say to try and find a field that fits your talents. Get a good education and training in that field, and then be sure to get a good job.
Craig stresses that it’s important to not settle for a position that won’t provide opportunities to learn more and advance. Broadening your horizons is key to achieving happiness not only in the workplace, but in life as well.
Q. What would you tell your kids to enjoy while they are young?
A. I would tell them to enjoy life on Marco Island and in Naples. We live in a beautiful place. Too often, kids don’t realize how great it is here
He states that more often than not, kids take for granted the beautiful scenery and the opportunities here, leave and then find out that what they had here was better than they had thought.
Q. What qualities do you feel your kids have gotten from you?
A. Follow through on jobs and work assigned to them or tasks to take on.
They also have an interest in the world around them, good values and common sense, and I’m proud that I was able to help them grow, appreciate things and develop proper values.
We thank Craig for taking the time out of his busy day to speak with us about parenting and fatherhood. Being a dad is a big job, and we want to thank all of the amazing people out there today that have taken on this important role. We hope that you have a wonderful day celebrating with your family, and thank you for all that you have done and continue to do in the lives of your children.