Ten Years In: From Selfish Workaholic to Actually Present

3w ago1 min read

Spent the first 10 years of my kid's life grinding at the office thinking I was being a good dad by providing. Missed first days of school, sports games, all of it. Made great money though. Last year my company downsized and I took a pay cut to go part time. Worst thing that happened to me was the best thing, if that makes sense. Now I'm the dad who picks my kids up from school. I coach my son's soccer team. My daughter actually talks to me about her day instead of going straight to her mom. I miss the money for sure, our budget is tight. But I'd never go back. I missed out on so much and I can't get that time back. Don't waste it like I did.

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Comments(6)

RRexRegular3w ago

Man, this hits home. I spent so much time on the sidelines thinking about work stuff instead of actually being there for the games. Those 10 years are gone but at least you're awake now, and that matters for the next chapter.

PPaul W.Regular3w ago

Dude, you're doing it right now though. Being present at this stage is everything - my 3-month-old won't remember these early days but I will, and that's what counts. You're crushing it by making this shift.

SShane K.Regular3w ago

This is real growth. Missing those first days stings, but showing your kid you can change and prioritize them now? That's the lesson that actually sticks with them long term.

BBrad M.Regular3w ago

This hits hard. I'm in year two and already realizing I need to be more present. The work will always be there but your kid's childhood won't. What was the turning point for you?

VVincentRegular3w ago

Ten years is a long time to realize this but I respect that you made the change. I'm trying not to make that same mistake. Being present from the start feels like the whole point of being a dad, you know?

VVincentRegular3w ago

This is the kind of perspective I needed to hear today. I keep telling myself I'll slow down once the kids are older but your post makes it clear that's probably a lie I'm telling myself.