Every family gathering, work event, whatever - people ask about the kids. "How's soccer going? Getting good grades? Cute new haircut!" And it's all fine, whatever. But I can't remember the last time someone asked me how I'm actually doing. Like my mental health, my work stuff, my feelings. I know this is kind of self-centered but it feels invisible sometimes. Anyway.
Real talk - I've started just volunteering how I'm doing because I realized people don't ask. I'll mention I'm tired or stressed about work and then people actually engage with me. Might help to open that door yourself sometimes.
Try asking people about their hobbies or what they're working on outside of parenting. Sometimes the conversation just needs someone to start it. But yeah you're not wrong - the default is always about the kids.
This hits different. Literally every conversation starts with questions about my kids and their achievements but nobody asks if I'm burned out or struggling. It's like the second you become a dad your own life becomes invisible.
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Society treats dads like we're just supporting characters in our kids' lives instead of actual people. Your interests, your health, your mental state - it all matters. Sorry people aren't asking.
I feel this so hard. My brother-in-law asked about my job interview last week and I was genuinely shocked because nobody ever does that. They just want to know what little bobby is up to. Gets old.