Becoming a dad for the first time is one of the most terrifyingly exciting moments of a man’s life. From the moment a guy announces the news, he starts getting peppered with well-meaning but often atrocious pieces of advice. The real dads in our Facebook community have something way better in response to a soon-to-be dad who is worried because he’s having trouble getting back on his feet ahead of welcoming his first baby: real solid advice from guys who love being a dad.
Here’s universal advice every man should read before becoming a dad.
John LaCroix: You don’t have to solve every problem right this second. Take a step back, figure out what needs to get done in your life and start hacking away at the list one thing at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be in the right place…taking care of a baby is easier than you think.
Jesse Dolar: Prioritize the positivity in your life. I had to say goodbye to a few friendships and changed jobs due to the negative atmosphere. Your child will be the best thing in your life but will drain you of your patience. Having the positive relationships will keep you charged and focused. Best of luck and remember to take a few deep breaths!
Pankaj Thakur: Trust me…..the moment u see his or her face… All the stress goes puff… Meanwhile take care of mom to be.. That’s the most important thing to do right now.
Brandon C Bruischart: Wake up early, get to work even if its doing something for yourself outside of work. No one gets ahead by starting late. Best words of advise I have for both your family and finances.
Rick Weisenmiller: Don’t have to pick them up every time they cry… there are going to be times you’re not going to know what to do… use every moment as a teaching moment.
Rick Seilhamer: Be persistent get rid of influences worry bout yourself and future child don’t talk about it get up and be about it.
Robyn Kerris Davies: Always put their needs before your own. You need a beer? They need food. You need a new t-shirt? They need diapers. It won’t always be this hard but for now, put them before anything else.
Donald Stokes: I was homeless and unemployed. I have an amazing lady who never gave up on me. Suing an employer for unfair job loss is one of the things a person must do for his rights. I got a job and things started looking up. 8 years later a few more kids. I now own 2 vehicles we have a 4 bedroom house and I am steps away from working for the state. It’s a process. Everyday do something better then the day before. Never lose track of the goal.
Brandon Wunn: Being worried is a good sign. Don’t let it trap you into being inactive. Show up, be present, and care. That’s all you have, and it is all you need to get started. You will figure the rest out as it comes to you.
Do you have a piece of good advice for a soon to be dad who’s down on his luck? Share it with us on the Life of Dad Facebook page.
*Flickr photo by Thomas Sauzedde, used under Creative Commons license.