Anthony O’regan shares his insights into becoming a newbie dad. Over to you Anthony…
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All of us newbies will hear the usual clichés when we first become a dad, everyone telling us life will never be the same, get used to getting no sleep, start growing up, no messing around and so on. As a Dad you will become lots of things you were not before, (yes a dad of course smarty pants) and your best source of information on what to be is always from other dads, they’ve been there and got the puke-stained shirts to prove it. Here’s 5 new things I’ve learned to be since my little one was born
The Statue
As any Dad who holds his beautiful bundle of joy will know, holding your child in a certain position, at least two or three times a day is a given. Every dad knows the joy that only a dad feels when his baby goes to sleep against his chest, whether it’s led down on the sofa or with them in a baby carrier. So holding that position just like a statue becomes a regular but beautiful occurrence. Stay firm be the statue!
The Mule
Yes we are the baggage handlers. We can pack more into the car than any average man would dream of attempting. Anywhere Dads are seen, you are guaranteed that he will be carrying more than his fair share of necessities. So manual handling is a must and being less obstinate too. Be the Mule.
The Patient Man
When you become a Dad, your level of tolerance will have to increase, or life may get tough. With it, so too must your patience, especially when it comes to stoping a child from crying when there is no obvious reason why. Even in giving total devotion, this can test the most level headed guy. So make patience a virtue of yours. If you ever feel yourself becoming angry, just put the baby down safely and walk away for a few seconds. Be the Patient Man.
The Sponge
Not only will you be acquiring lots of new cleaning skills but as a dad you will learn so much. Without knowing it your brain will be taking in an untold amount of information whether it is about baby, fatherhood, or toys! You will be soaking up so much, so get ready for that knowledge power, and be the Sponge.
Being Present
Make time. No, don’t just make time, make more time than you already do and spend it with your children in a focussed way. Dads with constant access to their kids should, from time to time, think of those men who have for one reason or another no contact with their children. Biology doesn’t make you a dad being there does. Be a dad by being present.
About the author
I’m a 33 year old male who recently has had the pleasure of becoming a father and getting engaged. I love to watch sports, listen to music and seek out new and interesting hobbies. I’m currently trying re-educate myself and find a career I can enjoy for the rest of my life. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook
