7 Habits of Highly Effective Fathers

Habits have some into the forefront of the public discourse in the last few years and for good reasons. With books like Atomic Habits and others, people are realizing that habits are some of the main things that shape our lives. This is no different for fathers. If you want to be the best father that you can be, then establishing good habits is going to be key to your success. Here are a few habit to consider giving your dadlife a boost.

Wake up early:

Waking up early is a habit that can transform your life as a father. It gives you the time you need to focus on your personal development, exercise, and plan your day ahead. This habit allows you to spend time alone to center yourself and come at the day with intentionality instead of always being on your back foot. You can use this time to journal, work out, pray, read or whatever you need to do to start the day our right. You will also be there when your kids wake up to great them and get the day started right. Waking up early sets a positive tone for the day and allows you to stay in control of your schedule, leading to better productivity and fulfillment.

Work out:

Physical fitness is essential for every individual, and fathers are no exception. Engaging in regular exercise helps to maintain good health, increase energy levels, and reduce stress. It also sets a good example for your children, encouraging them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Whether you prefer a gym, running or cycling, working out is a habit that can help you to be an effective father. This obviously pairs well with the first habit and if you can knock out these first two before the sun even rises, you’ll be winning before the day even begins for most people. The energy and vitality that you get from a good work out can carry you through the rest of the day.

Have at least one meal with your family:

Having a meal with your family is a great way to strengthen your bond with them. It provides an opportunity to catch up, share stories and express your love for each other. This habit also promotes healthy eating habits and provides a chance to teach your children table manners, social skills, and the importance of family values. Come to the table with a question for the day or an interesting story to tell them. This will help conversations progress and avoid being derailed by arguments or empty chatter. At dinner an easy conversation started is “what was the best part of your day?” Then ask follow up questions and actually be curious with your children.

Wrestle:

Studies have shown that physical rough and tumble play is essential for a young child’s development. This is great news because this comes naturally for most dads. Physical playtime is vital for children’s growth and development. It helps to build their physical strength, coordination, and social skills. Wrestling with your children is a great way to bond with them and build a strong connection. This habit helps your children to feel loved, valued and secure. This usually goes well after all the chores are done after dinner or right when you get home from work. Help burn some of that pent up energy with a good old fashion smack down.

Tell them that you love them:

It might be cliche but it needs to be said. Some men have a hard time expressing their feelings and that leaves a void in a child’s life. Expressing your love for your children is critical for their emotional well-being. It helps to boost their self-esteem, build confidence, and make them feel cherished. Telling your children that you love them regularly helps them to develop a positive sense of self and strengthens the bond between you and your children. Take it one step beyond saying “I love you,” and call out the good character traits you see in them, celebrate them for doing good. Be an expert in their best qualities. It can get old for a child to always be told to stop. Look for the good they do and jump at the opportunity to build them up.

Help around the house:

No matter how good of a dad you are, if you neglect your house and don’t support your wife in her efforts, you are going to have a tough go. Fathers who help with household chores set a great example for their children. It teaches them responsibility, teamwork, and the importance of contributing to the family. Helping around the house is also a way to show your spouse that you appreciate and value their efforts, reducing stress and creating a positive home environment. Make it fun, turn on music and help your kids help you. Give them specific tasks and follow up to make sure they do them. When they are young, take the extra time to show them how to do it well. A good clean-up routine after dinner is a great way to involve the whole family in something productive.

Be there at bedtime:

You may do the whole bedtime routine or tag-team with your wife, but be sure to show up in an intentional way. It can be tough at the end of the day to use up your last bit of energy but it will be worth it in the long run. Bedtime is a crucial time for fathers to bond with their children. Reading a book, saying prayers or telling stories can help children feel loved and secure, setting the tone for a restful night’s sleep. Being present during bedtime also allows fathers to address any concerns their children may have, reinforcing their love and support. Take the time to check in on each kid individually and talk with them about what is on their heart. You won’t regret those extra minutes you get with them while they are young.

If you are struggling as a dad, try out these habits and see if they help you out. I know all dads can’t do all of these but work to structure you day to allow for most of these. You will see a massive transformation in your life if you can start integrating these every day. These seven habits of highly effective fathers can make a significant difference in the lives of your children. Adopting these habits will not only benefit your children but also create a fulfilling and meaningful life as a father. These habits require effort, commitment, and consistency, but the rewards are worth it. By prioritizing these habits, you can become an effective father and create lasting memories with your children. Check out some of our recommended reading to take your parenting to the next level.