Completely different dad than my own father

1w ago1 min read

My dad was very distant. He worked all the time, didn't know how to show affection, and we didn't really talk about emotions. I swore I'd be different and I have been. I'm actively involved in my kids lives, I tell them I love them multiple times a day, I'm not afraid to cry in front of them or show vulnerability. My dad actually said something to me last week that caught me off guard - he asked if I could teach him how to be more like me with his grandkids. It's wild. Breaking that generational cycle is one of the hardest and best things I've done. I don't miss being emotionally closed off at all.

3 comments190 views

Comments(3)

SSam T.Regular5d ago

The distance thing is real. My dad worked constantly and we barely knew each other. I made sure to be more available even when work gets crazy. Your kid will remember that you actually showed up.

MMike R.Regular6d ago

This is a big one. My dad was the same way and I promised myself I'd be different. It's not always easy to break those patterns but just being present and talking to your kid about stuff changes everything. Good on you for recognizing it.

RRob H.Regular1w ago

Breaking the cycle is hard but worth it. I still catch myself getting frustrated the way my dad did, but then I remember my kid is looking to me to handle it differently. What kind of stuff are you doing differently?