I don't mean that in a depressing way because I love my kids more than anything. But man, I miss just sitting in my car with nobody talking to me for like 20 minutes. Or being able to watch a movie without pausing it 47 times. Used to take 2 hour runs on Sundays with my headphones. Now I'm lucky if I get to pee alone. Sometimes I sit in the garage for an extra 5 minutes just to not hear anyone ask me something.
This is why parents need breaks. You're not a bad dad for missing quiet time. Taking care of yourself makes you a better parent so don't feel bad about those moments.
After my 5yo finally went to bed last night I just sat in the backyard for like 30 minutes in complete silence and honestly it recharged me for the rest of the night. No guilt about it.
The silence thing is so real. I remember when my kids were young just sitting in the car after getting home from somewhere just to have five minutes before going inside. Total dad move but necessary.
I get this so much. I love my kids with everything I have but man, some mornings I wake up before they do just to have 20 minutes of quiet coffee time. It's not depressing, it's necessary for my sanity.
to join the conversation.
Headphones saved my life when the kids were younger. Even just putting them on for a podcast or music while doing laundry made a difference. You don't have to actually play anything sometimes.