Dear Dads, It’s Okay to Feel Tired
- by WONDERMOM
- Nov. 13, 2023
To all the dear dads out there, wearing those capes of superheroes, juggling endless roles and responsibilities, we see you. And guess what? It’s absolutely, perfectly fine to feel tired.
Once upon a time, in a world where the dawn was painted with baby cries and nights were defined by bedtime stories, dads embarked on the greatest adventure of them all: parenthood. The realm of dirty nappies, endless school runs, and an avalanche of toys is not for the faint-hearted. And dear dads, you've dived right into the thick of it with finesse and dedication.
There's a common misconception that mothers are the only ones who get overwhelmed with the ins and outs of parenting. That couldn't be further from the truth. Dear dads, your journey is equally filled with moments of elation, sprinkled with bouts of exhaustion.
Ever tried assembling a toy that comes with a 30-page instruction manual, using tools you didn’t even know existed? Or attempting to decipher the enigma that is your toddler’s language? Then, there's the classic: making those plaits for your daughter's school day, praying they at least vaguely resemble the YouTube tutorial. Oh, and don’t get us started on those energetic playtimes that require you to be an amateur acrobat. No wonder there are days when your batteries feel depleted!
Now, let's talk about emotional energy. The world might expect you to have a stiff upper lip, but dear dads, we know that there are nights when worries keep you awake. Concerns about their future, education, and general well-being come with the territory. Plus, there's that inexplicable pressure to always "have it together." Yet, let’s face it; parenting doesn’t come with a foolproof manual. You're learning, adapting, and improvising every day.
Here's a fun fact: Did you know, according to an entirely fictional (yet rather believable) survey, dear dads are 99.9% more likely to step on stray LEGO pieces than any other member of the family? Ouch! This invariably leads to a unique tiredness known only to the paternal members of the clan. We feel that pain (literally)!
While the days might sometimes seem relentless with a never-ending playlist of baby songs, your dedication doesn't go unnoticed. Those nightly bedtime stories, even after a hard day’s work? The laughter, the tears, the joys, the challenges – all of these knit together the fabric of fatherhood. And just like any other adventure, it’s okay to pause, take a breath and admit, “I’m a bit knackered!”
Dear dads, if ever you're wondering whether you're doing a good job, remember this: in the eyes of your kids, you're the rock star. The legend. The one whose hug can make everything right. And just as with any superstar, a bit of tiredness comes with the territory.