Have you ever messed up as a dad? Of course you have. We all have, and dad guilt is real. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how to handle our parenting mistakes in a way that keeps us close to our kids. 

Why This Matters
How we respond after making a mistake shapes our relationship with our kids.

Types of Dad Mess Ups

1. Accidental Fails: These are NOT heart issues; these are just mistakes. 

2. Emotional Mess Ups: These dismiss how your kids are feeling

3. Social Mess Ups: Things that embarrass your kids. 

4. Guidance Mess Ups: Giving bad advice to you’re your kids. 

5. Presence Mess Ups: Simply, not being there for your kids.  

What is dad guilt?

Dad guilty is typically defined as the feeling men have when they think they have fallen short of their desires or expectations as a parent.   

How To Get Over Dad Guilt?
Action Step 1: Have awareness.

Action Step 2: Own your mess up.

Action Step 3: Apologize.

Action Step 4: Forgive yourself.

Action Step 5: Plan for next time.

Important Episode Timestamps 

00:00 – 03:53 | The Broken Wrist Vacation Fail

03:53 – 05:12 | When Kids Hide Their Pain to “Be Easy”

05:12 – 06:33 | The Garage Door Face-Plant Story

06:33 – 09:22 | When Your Mistake Becomes a 4,000-Pound Reminder

09:22 – 11:25 | The Big Question: What Do I Do When I Mess Up as a Dad?

11:25 – 13:49 | Embarrassing Kids in Public: Social Fails

13:49 – 16:20 | Presence Fails: When You’re There but Not Really There

16:20 – 20:33 | Action Step #1: Show Awareness and Identify the Mess-Up

20:33 – 25:23 | Action Step #2: Own It and Apologize Well

25:23 – End | Action Step #3: Plan for Next Time and Don’t Repeat the Pattern

APD Pro Move:
When you mess up this week, say you’re sorry. Tell your child they did not deserve it and remind them that you love them. 

All Pro Dad Resources: 

Episode 106 – What Is A Passenger Parent and Am I One?

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Ted Lowe on LinkedIn

Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn

BJ Foster on LinkedIn

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