Fathers miss out on being 'dads' for several reasons, but the most common are:
1) No fatherly example to follow or,
2) Being too busy
'Having no example to follow' can occur when growing up without a father or father figure, at least one worthy of following. That situation can be an excuse for a while, but any man can find help if they want it. I suggest looking for parenting books, blogs, or experienced friends. Or just be loving and available, and you will quickly learn.
'Being too busy' can be from a need to support one's family, but it can also be from being too selfish with one's time. The most important thing you can give your family is time! You must find a way.
Here's help
About three years ago, I wrote 16 differences between a father and a dad in a video slide presentation. In reviewing the video, these differences remain true and are critical for any father to understand. I encourage you to watch for the first time or the 16th time.
Knowing the differences between a father and a dad has the potential of being the most valuable 3 minutes and 32 seconds you will ever spend as a father (or mother). It’s quick! Even TV commercial breaks last longer than this video - so watch it while the toothpaste, beer, and ‘My Pillow’ ads play for the 10,000th time as you watch “Big Bang Theory” or "Friends" reruns (we all need down time).
Take Note!
Something not mentioned in the video is an important fact. A parent’s influence diminishes quickly over time! You cannot wait in your need to establish rules and values as habits your children will carry throughout their lives. If you haven’t been engaged, yet, and your child is 3, 8, 16, or 21 years old, you are way late, but engage anyway. It's never too late.
Thank you for following “Helping Fathers to be Dads” and reading “The Power of Dadhood.” I have seen how being loving, engaged, and involved in your children's lives means everything to your family. I have also seen what occurs when that doesn't happen. Choose to be a Dad!
Mike Smith
1) No fatherly example to follow or,
2) Being too busy
'Having no example to follow' can occur when growing up without a father or father figure, at least one worthy of following. That situation can be an excuse for a while, but any man can find help if they want it. I suggest looking for parenting books, blogs, or experienced friends. Or just be loving and available, and you will quickly learn.
'Being too busy' can be from a need to support one's family, but it can also be from being too selfish with one's time. The most important thing you can give your family is time! You must find a way.
Here's help
About three years ago, I wrote 16 differences between a father and a dad in a video slide presentation. In reviewing the video, these differences remain true and are critical for any father to understand. I encourage you to watch for the first time or the 16th time.
Knowing the differences between a father and a dad has the potential of being the most valuable 3 minutes and 32 seconds you will ever spend as a father (or mother). It’s quick! Even TV commercial breaks last longer than this video - so watch it while the toothpaste, beer, and ‘My Pillow’ ads play for the 10,000th time as you watch “Big Bang Theory” or "Friends" reruns (we all need down time).
Take Note!
Something not mentioned in the video is an important fact. A parent’s influence diminishes quickly over time! You cannot wait in your need to establish rules and values as habits your children will carry throughout their lives. If you haven’t been engaged, yet, and your child is 3, 8, 16, or 21 years old, you are way late, but engage anyway. It's never too late.
Thank you for following “Helping Fathers to be Dads” and reading “The Power of Dadhood.” I have seen how being loving, engaged, and involved in your children's lives means everything to your family. I have also seen what occurs when that doesn't happen. Choose to be a Dad!
Mike Smith
