Became a dad and realized I wasn't the person I thought I was

2w ago1 min read

Before my son was born I had this image of myself as a pretty independent, detached kind of guy. Didn't think I'd be one of those emotional father types. Had the kid and something just flipped. I'm the guy crying at little moments now. I actually care deeply about stuff. I worry about legacy and what kind of role model I'm being. It's weird because it feels like I became a completely different person but also like I finally got to actually be myself instead of playing a character. I miss some of the simplicity of not caring so much about things but I wouldn't go back. This version of me is better.

6 comments120 views

Comments(6)

RRick M.Regular1w ago

Same experience here. Before kids I was all about my independence and doing my own thing. Now I'm that guy who gets excited about soccer games on Saturday morning. Not complaining, just surprised at how much it changed my perspective on what matters.

RRobertRegular2w ago

The detached guy thing hits different when you're actually responsible for another human. I had to admit I wasn't as independent as I thought I was either. Turns out a lot of that was just avoidance.

CCarlosNew Dad2w ago

This resonates so hard. You find out pretty quick that the independent detached thing doesn't matter anymore once you've got a kid depending on you.

JJason T.Regular2w ago

Same thing happened to me when my kids were born. Turns out I cared way more than I thought I would and that's been the best surprise.

MMatt B.New Dad2w ago

I get this completely. I thought I'd be the detached type too until my kids came into the picture and everything shifted. Being emotional for them isn't weakness, it's just being a real dad.

JJason T.Regular2w ago

This resonates so much. I thought I'd be the guy who could just hand off parenting duties and keep my old life intact. Then my daughter was born and I realized I actually wanted to be present for everything. Still figuring out who that person is.