Dad In A Daughter's World

Dr. Shyam joins me to talk about the importance of brain training and why that is important for us dads. He gives us some great tools to help us be better dads, so make sure you take notes because this will be worth implementing.

If you would like to connect with Dr. Shyam, you can find him on Instagram @shyamgotfitat40 and be sure to join his Facebook Group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/dadbodbraincoaching/about.

There came a point in my life where I realized I was carrying some baggage and how negatively that impacted me. I didn't want that for my girls. Is it possible for them to make it out without any baggage though? 

We all feel uncertainty and anxiety. The main reason? We don't want to screw this up. Are you going to do it right? Probably not, but do it anyway.

Death is a difficult topic to discuss with our kids. I have found Halloween, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day to be a great way to approach the topic from a generational standpoint that focuses on honoring our history and hope for our future.

Do your kids copy everything another kid does? My youngest copies everything my oldest does. This behavior is natural, but it is a slippery slope. There is a big difference between mirroring people (like a mentor), being a copycat (harmless copying done by a younger sibling), and a sell out (not being true to self for the approval of others). 

We're not here to raise sell outs.

Disciplining our kids at church, or any other social setting, needs to stay focused on their future and your commitment to your family. It is NOT about making you look like you are the best dad ever. Don't get mad, be consistent. 

Dad's don't like emotions, I get that. I don't either. We have to embrace it though because that is how we create lasting bonds with our daughters. It is never too late to bond with your daughters. If you aren't sure how to start, this is an easy way to begin.

How prepared are you as a dad? I have learned that the sick sisters of fate tend to be gentler with those who are prepared. Actually, that's a load of crap. Success is when preparation meets timing. How prepared are you for the next stage in your daughter's life?

We all make mistakes, that's a given. We don't all handle it well though. Are you a dad who has to appear like they have all their crap together all the time? Are mistakes a risk to your reputation? Or are you able to be vulnerable and communicate with your daughters? I was forced to choose between these two types and I'm glad for the decision I made because it helps me as a dad.

Dad-isms is one of my favorite things about being dad. I get to say whatever pops into my head and act like it is profound wisdom. One dad-ism, that has all but become a mantra, is: you can have fun, but you gotta get stuff done. We have to teach our kids to balance play and responsibility. If they can balance those two well, they will be set up for success in life.