As a (relatively) new father, it often feels like raising a happy, healthy child requires superhuman abilities. I’ve discovered that through the practice of just three virtues, Optimism, Patience, and Adaptability, I’m much more mindful of the challenges that arise through parenthood and, therefore, more open to improving who I am as a father and all that goes with this incredible responsibility. They have helped me re-center and move forward in times of distress and frustration.
- Optimism: Taking a few minutes each day to acknowledge who and what I’m grateful for is a beautiful defense against negativity. And because fatherhood is such a test of patience, this has been essential.
- Patience: When being patient is too much to sustain, and I start to feel aggravated, I transition my experience to a place of observation. For my wife and I, this change allows us to learn more about our daughters, and it’s also often quite funny to watch their antics.
- Adaptability: In addition to physically planning for the inevitable, I mentally prepare for the unexpected. In this way, surprises become opportunities. When it rains, we go outside and jump in puddles.
- Mindfulness (BONUS): Being optimistic, patient, and adaptable is a practice I often fail. But no sooner than I find myself down, my children make me laugh, and my troubles become insignificant.
My daughter Warren was born 14 weeks early. My wife Colie and I spent three months in the NICU until the doctors said it was safe to bring our baby home. It’s been five years since our time in the NICU, and Warren is thriving. About a year and a half ago, we welcomed our second daughter, Ansel, into our family. Both continue to change who I am daily.
As I continue to learn, I look forward to sharing more about fatherhood.
World of Illusions 