Dad-Hacks, Date Nights, and Deliberate Decisions: July 3, 2024

Each week in the Intentional Dad Newsletter, we'll focus on three aspects of being a dad: ourselves, our relationship, and our children.?

I'll be honest - it's a little uncomfortable putting “Ourselves” at the top of the list. If you share this discomfort, you're not alone. On one hand, we are there for our families and others, and we have the tools and drive to help! On the other hand, we are still people with hopes, wants, dreams, and needs. And if we don't recognize this, we can easily fall into areas of resentment, blame, and overall unhappiness. Ask me how I know.

Ourselves

What do you want? Does that question scare you? These are the biggest questions we can ask ourselves.

But I don't know if that's always the right question! I love practical advice, and love to think about the small things I can do for myself each week to find and create enjoyment in life.?

For me: I'm finding 20 minutes to walk and listen to an audiobook.

I also enjoy a good “grooming” day once a week. Those nosehairs aren't going to pluck themselves.

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Our Relationship

Are you getting what you want out of your relationship? Are you putting in what you want? Communication: Schedule weekly check-ins with your partner, practice active listening, and express daily appreciation. This doesn't sound romantic - but by doing these scheduled check-ins, we can then focus on the positive connections and deep relationship we can have with a partner! It doesn't mean you have to necessarily put these items on the calendar - rather, write yourself a reminder to talk ?listen to your spouse weekly. Sometimes even 15 minutes can make a different.

And speaking of scheduling, let's get a date on the calendar - like a “date” date! You and your spouse will be so much better off if you continue to connect.

Make life easy for your spouse: plan it all out, and let them know where you two are going. Unless you have a spouse that loves to decide, take the decision making off their plate!

Our Children

Summer is upon us! We love movies at our house. Try these tips to enhance movie night: Preparation: Create invitations, choose a movie theme and decor, and arrange comfortable seating with pillows and blankets.

• Snacks: Make popcorn together with favorite toppings, create themed snacks, and set up a small snack bar with healthy options.
• Activities: Discuss the movie beforehand, create movie bingo cards, and have a post-movie discussion to share favorite parts.
• Surprises: Encourage dressing up as movie characters, give DIY tickets, and engage in a related craft activity afterward.

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Weekly Gratitude:

Wherever you are, I am glad you are here and reading this!?

Each week I think of someone that has helped me in my life. It could be friends, family, spouse, kids, people from my past, etc. I send an email, text, or pick up the phone and just say “thank you.” I was hesitant to do this at first - who cares, right? Turns out people do care, and enjoyed hearing how much they impacted me. Try it out - a simple “thanks for being there” can go a long way!

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