Stress from work is making me a bad dad at home

3w ago·1 min read

Had a rough day at the office and came home and yelled at my kids for something stupid. They didn't deserve that. My stress isn't their fault but I'm taking it out on them and I hate it. Been trying to decompress before I walk in the door, go for a run or just sit in the car for 10 minutes but some days the stress is just too much. How do you guys compartmentalize? I want to be present and patient when I'm with my family.

3 comments173 views

Comments(3)

KKevinRegular3w ago

Been there man. I had a day last week where I snapped at my oldest over literally nothing and then felt terrible about it all night. What helped me was just owning it with them. I sat down that evening and apologized, explained I had a rough day but that wasn't their fault. Kids are way more forgiving than we think if we're honest about it.

BBrad T.New Dad3w ago

Work stress is real but it doesn't excuse taking it out on kids. You know this already though which is why you're posting. Maybe talk to your boss about workload or find ways to decompress before you get home? I've started going for a drive after work just to chill before I see my kids.

JJamesRegular3w ago

The guilt after yelling is the worst part right? I try to remember that one bad moment doesn't define me as a dad. Maybe take some time tonight to reset. Go play with them, do something fun together. Tomorrow's a new day.