Home  |  The Expectant Father  |  The New Dad  |  Fathers and Daughters  |  Fathers and Sons  |  Forums  |  Product Reviews

Being a new Dad is one of those things that you can only prepare for so much. One of the reasons why preparation is difficult is because it causes you to change, as well as hitting you with all the other unique things that go on. So as a starting point, its probably a good idea to just spend a bit of time letting go of your expectations and opening yourself up to new experiences. New experiences which you may, or may not expect. Freeing yourself of expectations in this manner, will certainly help you react better when all those surprises are sprung.

 

One issue that many men find tiresome in the early months of fatherhood, is regarding involvement. Some people think, just like during pregnancy, our involvement in our children's lives finishes at conception.

 

"I know what to do, I've brought up 3 myself" and such comments will become all too familiar to you. You'll need to weave your way through a myriad of personalities, trying not to upset people, all the while protecting your right and obligation to protect your firstborn from friend and foe. Getting upset will just upset everyone, so that makes no sense. Its time to put those deplomacy skills to use, know that they will be tested. Just remember though, be strong in your diplomacy, your baby is your responsibility and if people need to know that, make sure they know.

 

You'll probably find your ideas about career and money will change. These things will no longer become a measure of success in themselves, rather they will become a means to achieving bigger things. All of a sudden, family, and time with your children will be the things that give you your buzz. So money will become, just a piece in the puzzle, and time at the office will become time away from where you want to be. This will become the new "tug of war" in your life, success at work, or seeing your child's smile.

 

And you'll find a new need to managing your energy. Your time and efforts will be spread so thin. You are probably now the sole provider for three people, (for some period of time at least) you'll be expected to change nappies and run baths, you'll want to play peek-a-boo, and don't forget about the love of your life. She still needs your attention, love and gratitude. She probably needs this more so now than ever before given she is the mother of your child. You can see how the term "from pillar to post" will have new meaning in your life.

 

These are the types of topics this section of Fathers4Fathers.com covers. We hope you find them useful, while enjoying this amazing time in a man's life.

 

• Early Bonding - The Importance of Carrying Your Baby
• Enjoy Time With Your Baby With These Personalized Gifts