The Role You Signed Up For

I've been thinking a lot about the role dads play in raising sons. Especially millennial dads raising young boys.

For a lot of us, being a father today feels like an opportunity to right the wrongs of the past. To raise a new generation of boys who know they are loved. Who know they can do hard things. Who know their own strength, and when to use it.

The love we give our children is often a reflection of the love we wish we received.

My father was an amazing provider. That meant he was on the road a lot, and he made sacrifices for our family that I couldn't understand as a boy. Becoming a father myself means I am faced with a deeper understanding of my dad's role, and what he was willing to do to raise his family.

What does the balance actually look like

I often struggle with the balance. Dedicating myself to my work and my craft so I can take care of my family financially. Showing my son what it's like to be passionate about something and fully commit to it. I want my son to see the joy I experience when I am good at something.

And I want to make sure I am fully present for him. Simply being there means so much, and our time is limited. This is a struggle most of us carry.

What am I actually giving him

I won't say I have figured out the formula. What I intend to continue doing is bring my son along with me. Show him as much as I can of who I am when I am fully committed to my goals.

That is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your boy. I want him to see what strength looks like. What good temperament looks like. What unconditional love looks like. If I do those things, I think I have done my job as a father.

And if you are reading this as a dad, you are doing the right thing by being dedicated. Show up for your boy as much as you can, and continue to show up for yourself. Show him what being a man is. That is the role you signed up for, whether you acknowledge it or not.

Don't let up now, so he has an opportunity to aim for the stars.