Navigating Fatherhood: Tips for New Dads
Navigating Fatherhood: Tips for New Dads
by Brenden Bozlovitch
Becoming a father can be daunting. You might wonder what life is going to be like, asking yourself, "Am I going to be a ‘good enough’ dad?" It’s natural to reflect on your own experiences with your dad—considering the good, the bad, and even the ugly—thinking about what you want to carry forward and what you want to leave behind on your own journey as a father. As human tendency would have it, we often hyper-focus on the negativity.
As a relatively new dad myself, with three children under 5 years old and another on the way, I understand the stressors that come with navigating the world as an expectant dad. Society often focuses on supporting the mom—which, don’t get me wrong, is very important—but the new dad’s experience is equally significant. Here are three things you can do to prepare yourself for this big change:
1. Connect with Other Dads
Connecting with other dads can help you learn firsthand what you’re about to experience. Whether you have questions, concerns, or just need someone to talk to, having a conversation with another dad can be a great starting point. They’ve been there and can offer practical advice or simply a listening ear.
2. Expect the Unexpected
As a new dad, I didn’t fully grasp the amount of change that would enter our lives. I thought we could continue with our usual routine, just with a baby carrier in tow. For some, that might be the case, but for others, like me and my spouse, we had to adapt what we thought was our “normal” life. For instance, we started cutting our evenings short to maintain a regular sleep routine for our baby. Instead of staying out late, we often called it an early night. This approach paid dividends, as it allowed us to follow a tight sleep routine ourselves while helping our baby develop their own. Remember, your baby is learning everything from scratch, so establishing healthy routines will be essential.
3. Plan Ahead
With your baby’s arrival imminent, planning ahead can be crucial. Consider saving up some vacation time to take off when your baby is born. This time can be invaluable, allowing you to bond with your new arrival and giving your spouse time to recover from the birthing process.
Sometimes adapting to this change can feel overwhelming, or you might find yourself anxious about what lies ahead. Know that these feelings are normal. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Talking to a professional can help you process these worries, gain perspective on what you’re going through, and empower you to be the best dad you can be.
Reach Out for Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to as you prepare for fatherhood, I’m here to help. At BSB Counselling, I offer personalized support for new and expectant fathers, helping you navigate this exciting but challenging time in your life.
Don’t hesitate to reach out—support is available, and together, we can ensure you feel confident and prepared as you step into this new chapter of your life. Hit 'Request an Appointment' to book in your next session.