Being a father and a spouse are the best things in life for so many people. Before you make the big step in having a child, or if you have a little one on the way, it is natural to worry about what kind of father you will be.

And maybe you should worry, just a little bit! Raising a child and becoming a father is very important and cumbersome and it can sometimes put a strain on your relationship with your partner, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

According to The Fatherhood Project:

Fathers and infants can be equally as attached as mothers and infants. When both parents are involved with the child, infants are attached to both parents from the beginning of life.

Becoming a father doesn’t come with a manual, but we did compile a few steps for you to be a great father and partner:

Step 1: Don’t worry about becoming a father. Of course you will be nervous for the first few days, but don’t spend time stressing over the small stuff.
Step 2: Don’t forget to give your spouse some alone time after the baby arrives. Sometimes a 30 min soak in the tub, or a quiet trip to the store is just what she needs to recharge.
Step 3: Don’t be afraid to be affectionate! As your child grows from infant to toddler and from toddler to teenager, don’t be afraid to show them your affection. Make sure to give plenty of hugs and snuggles, a loved kid is a happy kid!
Step 4: Don’t take every piece of advice to heart. Everyone you know will probably try to give you advice as your child grows up, but not every piece of advice is good for your situation. Listen to what people have to say, but know when to implement their help and when to ignore it.
Step 5: Don’t forget to enjoy it all. Every moment of being a father is a special one. Make sure to take a step back every once in a while to appreciate the everyday wonder of being a father.

About Choices Psychotherapy

Choice is the foundation for a change. Choice speaks to the reality that there is not one right answer for all.  At Choices Psychotherapy, we are committed to empowering clients and their families to identify options while assisting in creating a personal roadmap toward health and recovery.

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