Every year when Father’s Day rolls around, I take the time to reflect on the connection between my home life and work life. As a father and a small business owner, I can honestly say that two of my most fulfilling adventures in life are owning a business and raising children.

You want your children to develop into strong, healthy, productive members of society. You want your business to thrive as a prosperous, constructive part of your community. Many of the characteristics of a great father translate into those of successful small business owners. Here are just a few of those traits.

1. Patience

This one seems like a no-brainer, right? Any dad knows that one of the foundations of parenting is patience. As an entrepreneur or small business owner, patience (and level-headedness) are vital to building a business that will succeed. Without it, you’re bound to make quick decisions and rash judgements that can lead you down the wrong path (poor partnerships, wasted money, bad PR).

2. Empathy

You’ve probably read over and over that business owners need to lead with an iron fist, but there’s no quicker way to alienate your employees than leading like a tyrant. Just like every father needs to find the perfect balance between parent and pal, every leader needs to toe the line between chief and comrade.

3. Discipline

Discipline is profoundly important as a leader, parent and person. Without discipline, children lack direction and restraint. Without discipline, employees and leaders alike are less productive and inefficient. Whether in the office or at home, discipline is not about showing them “Who’s Boss” but rather giving your kids and employees life instruction that is built upon accountability.

4. Honesty

Honesty and transparency should be pillars of any company culture. Without the opportunity for open communication and direct feedback, any business is doomed for failure. Similarly, as a father, it’s important to build a relationship of truthfulness with your children.

5. Sense of Humor

If you’re a father or business owner, this one should be obvious. Without a sense of humor, issues and unexpected hurdles can be exponentially more stressful. If you can manage to go through your days with a smile on your face, it’ll make those ledges seem a little lower. In both roles, those looking to you as an example (children and employees) will follow suit. If you’re able to tackle tasks and problems in a positive way, that attitude will become the norm.

6. Servant Leadership

As a father, your purpose is to act as a mentor, teach accountability and teach children that every person deserves respect. These are just a few of the pillars of servant leadership (and only a few of your responsibilities as a parent), and they are equally important to instill in your team as a business owner.

While fatherhood and business ownership including many, many more layers, these traits will guarantee success in both roles no matter what barriers you may face. Happy Father’s Day to the fellow dads out there!