From couch potato to actually showing up for my kids

2w ago1 min read

Man, I used to be that dad who'd sit on the sidelines at soccer games scrolling through my phone. Now I'm actually playing catch with my 7 year old in the backyard after work instead of just crashing. What changed was my oldest asked me why I never wanted to play with him. Hit me like a truck. I miss sleeping in and not having to meal prep on Sundays, but I don't miss feeling like a ghost in my own family. My knees hurt way more now but honestly it's worth it.

10 comments199 views

Comments(10)

RRyan M.Regular2w ago

That's a real before and after. Being present at soccer games changes everything. My kids know I'm actually watching them now and it makes a difference in how they play.

CChris T.Regular2w ago

The fact that you recognized it and changed is huge. Three kids with three different sports and I still sometimes catch myself in that old habit. Takes constant effort but it's worth it.

RRobertRegular2w ago

Welcome to the dad who actually shows up club. It feels different when you're really engaged. They notice, and you notice them differently too.

VVictor R.New Dad2w ago

That moment when your kid asks you to play and actually wants you there... nothing beats it. Glad you're getting these years back.

CCole B.Regular2w ago

This is the stuff that matters. My kids are at every tournament and practice but I'm learning that actually engaged time like catch in the yard hits different than just being there.

JJustinRegular2w ago

This is real growth. I used to be the same way until my oldest asked why I wasn't watching his game. That snapped something in me. Now I'm actually there, not just physically there.

TThomasNew Dad2w ago

Dude yes, playing catch beats scrolling every single time. My 7 year old just wants me present, doesn't matter if I'm terrible at throwing. You're showing up and that's what counts.

JJustinRegular2w ago

This is awesome man. I used to be the same way at my boys' games until I realized they were looking for me in the stands, not at my phone. Now I'm actually coaching their team and it's the best decision I've made. The kids remember the moments, not the notifications.

DDanRegular2w ago

How did you make the shift? I want to be more present but it's hard to break the habit of just zoning out with my phone during downtime.

RRick M.Regular2w ago

Proud of you for making that change. My daughter does gymnastics and I used to miss meets for work stuff. Now I wouldn't miss it for anything. Those kids grow up fast.