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Guest Post: 3 Tips For New Dads From the Author of Made For Me
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When I was ten years old, I daydreamed about two very specific things. Instead of imagining a career in medicine or a life as an astronaut, I knew one day I wanted to surround myself with live music. This was one of my vivid childhood dreams. The other dream, plain and simple, was one day to be a dad—and an awesome dad at that. I am proud to say that both of these dreams came true (though you’ll have to ask my kids about the awesome part).
I was always told that there are no words to describe the true love and joy of being a parent until you are one yourself—and I can now confidently say this is so very accurate. Holding my son in my arms for the first time—and, just three years ago, my daughter—set off a whirlwind of emotions that I never imagined I was even capable of experiencing.
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Let’s just say, my mind was blown. So while many know me as Zack Bush—club owner, bar owner, restaurant owner, music aficionado, author, etc.—at my core, I am none of these things. At my core, and in my heart of hearts, I am Dad.
For me, there is no greater or more important title in the world. Being a dad is my purpose. So for new dads and all those who are trusted with that vital role, here are three tips:
Tip 1: Create a New Balance.
Whether you are a go-to-work dad or a stay-at-home dad, we all have our daily routines. These routines obviously get disturbed when the new role of dad gets thrust upon you. It is important to create a new balance. Make the time to embrace your new role. Wake up earlier, go to sleep later, and do whatever is necessary to show your family and little one(s) how much they are loved. Family is everything, and now is the time to practice what you preach! This includes putting the phone/computer away. (This was a hard one for me, but so very worth it.)
Tip 2: Breathe and Cherish.
Take it all in, and find joy in the little moments. The joy of fatherhood also comes with moments of chaos, crying, tears, trips to doctors, etc. It is important to breathe. Take a deep breath in these moments of chaos. More than anything, cherish each moment. I know it sounds cliché, but it really does go by so fast. My wife and I see newborns today, and even with our own kids (ages 4 and 3), it is so easy to forget the beautiful infant stages. It is truly remarkable how time flies, and you need to be fully present to truly enjoy the magic. Cherish all of the tender moments—and there will be plenty of them!
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Tip 3: Read to Your Child.
I am not a doctor, and while I am certain there are learning benefits to reading to your child daily/nightly, that is not why I suggest this. I found reading to my children from day one has provided a great way for me to connect with them. Sure, we have plenty of playtime and silly time—but when we snuggle up and read (and I read with a lot of expression), I feel a tremendous connection between myself and each of my kids. There is no better feeling than watching the magic in their eyes and seeing their imaginations at work. In fact, I love reading to my kids so much, I wrote a children’s picture book entitled Made for Me, which has become a part of our goodnight family ritual.
Made for Me is on B&N bookshelves now.