She Strengthens

Redefining Fatherhood: Breaking Free from Traditional Roles

As a new father, I thought I had it all figured out. I was the “clown,” the one who made my 2-year-old son giggle with silly voices and wild gestures. But beneath the surface, I was perpetuating a parenting stereotype that wasn’t doing my wife or me any favors.

The Unintended Consequences of Being the “Fun” Dad

When I took on the role of the “fun” dad, I inadvertently left my wife with the bulk of the caregiving responsibilities. She was the one who soothed our upset child, while I got to enjoy playtime and silly adventures. It wasn’t fair to her, and it wasn’t sustainable.

Breaking the Mold

I realized that I needed to pivot and take on more responsibility. I started doing diaper duty, cleaning up after meals, and leading the charge on bottle disinfecting. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.

The Pandemic’s Unexpected Lesson

Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and everything changed. I lost my job, and my wife became the sole breadwinner. I took on full-time parenting duties, but I quickly realized that being the “fun” dad wasn’t enough. I needed to learn how to be comforting, empathetic, and understanding.

Adapting to a New Reality

It wasn’t easy, but I learned to read my son’s cues, to understand what he needed, and to provide comfort when he was upset. We created new routines, like saying goodbye to mom in the morning and celebrating her return. I discovered new activities that engaged him, like art projects and dance parties.

A Newfound Appreciation for Fatherhood

In the process, I transformed my relationship with my son. I went from having one superpower to make him laugh to knowing how to give him what he truly needed. I learned to prioritize my role as a father and husband, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

The Pandemic’s Silver Lining

The pandemic may have brought its challenges, but it also forced us to slow down and reevaluate what’s truly important. For me, being fully present in my role as a father and husband is what matters most.

Embracing Change

I’m not the same dad I was a year ago. I’ve grown, I’ve learned, and I’ve adapted. And while change can be scary, it can also be incredibly healthy. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.