Being a father and husband are two of the most significant roles any man can play. While it’s always been tough to master the role of dad and husband, in the 21st century, it seems like it’s even harder. Once upon a time, men were the breadwinners and while they were off at work, their wives tended to the children and house. But in modern day society, it takes dual incomes to meet the financial demands of homeownership and raising a family, which means that wives are also working full-time jobs to support the needs of their families. And even if a single income is enough to sustain, many women want to work.
The changes in societal norms have made life a bit more challenging for men. Not only are they working, but they also have to help out more with the kids than the dads of past generations did. Juggling work, the house, and the needs of the family can be downright exhausting, and often, men feel as if they are failing as fathers and husbands.
If feel like the obstacles in your life are impeding your ability to excel in the two most important roles in your life, keep on reading to find out how you can overcome these obstacles and be the best dad and husband that you can be!
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!
One of the most important elements of any relationship – whether it’s between a husband and wife or father and child – is communication. If you want to ensure you are meeting the needs of your spouse and your children, you need to keep the lines of communication open.
Encourage your family to talk to you about how they are feeling, things that are bothering them, or just anything, really. Likewise, make sure that you are talking to them about how YOU are feeling, things that are bothering you, and anything else you want to get off your chest. An open line of communication will help to develop stronger bonds between you, your children, and your wife.
Make Quality Time a Priority
Whether you spend long days at the office or you have to travel frequently for work, if you have to be apart, make sure that you are make quality time a top priority. Spend some time talking with your wife and kids after you get home from work. Eat dinner together as a family. Instead of watching TV or playing on electronic devices, read together. Go for walks or bike rides. Your time is the most valuable thing you can give to your family; make sure you invest it in them!
Listen to Their Needs
You may think your wife is nagging you when she asks you to pitch in and help out more around the house, or that your kids are being bratty when they are whining at your feet; however, while it may seem annoying to you, what they are really doing is expressing their needs. Don’t ignore them or sweep them under the rug. Instead, actively listen and try the best you can to show them you hear what they are saying. When you listen to the needs of your loved ones, they will feel respected, and they’ll show you more respect in return.
Discuss Finances
For most families, finances are one of the biggest challenges. Discuss your finances with your wife. Establish a budget and ensure that you both stick to it. While your kids may not be old enough to fully grasp the concept of money, it’s important to start teaching them about financial matters at a young age. For instance, don’t just cave in and give them everything they want; instead, explain the value of a dollar and how they can’t always get what they want.
