Small Wins That Matter Most for Dads

Being a father can be chaotic and exhausting, and it can even make you question your sanity. Yet in between all of the mayhem, there are these little precious moments that make your heart stand still. Moments when you say, “This is it. This is worth it”.

The First Unprompted ‘I Love You’

Nothing prepares any dad for when your child just says an “I love you” for no apparent reason. The sentence is nothing, just a four-letter term. Yet when it is spoken by those little lips for reasons unknown? Winning an emotional lottery. You are in a heap of dirty laundry, fighting glitter off of the couch, and your heart is just about exploding.

Those Quiet Morning Cuddles

Early in the morning, there is a mess of cereal accidents and clashing socks. But every now and then, there is a moment of calm. Your child crawls on your lap, hair in every direction, still warm. He wants nothing—not a snack, not a screen. Just you. This moment of calm, this calm before all of it begins, is a breath for your heart.

Laughing At Your Ridiculous Jokes

We can be honest here. Being a dad is not necessarily all it is cracked up to be. You’re sleep-deprived, your humour is awful, and chances are, your mind is humming along to last week’s marathon of kids’ shows. Yet when your kid just loses it in uncontrollable laughter over something inane you just made? That is pure gold. Their laughter is non judgmental. At this moment, you are a hilarious human being, and it feels awesome.

Seeing Them Comforting Someone Else

A silent pride in your child consoling another human being. Whether it’s a cuddle for a sobbing best buddy or a reassuring kind word of support, it is a reminder that your kid is learning empathy. For single dads, these moments can feel all the more sweet. There are support groups that help single dads navigate life and where dads share how these small displays of empathy and understanding give them a reason for living. The little reminders show that all your efforts in instilling these virtues in your kid are taking root in daily life.

When They Remember What You’ve Taught Them

Ever have your own advice come back in your own words? Perhaps your kid repeats a mantra or a phrase you say whenever there is a mistake. Or makes a big point of saying “thank you” following a playdate since “that is what we do.” It feels a little weird, yet it is quite gratifying. You see, they must be listening, despite it occasionally feeling as though you are addressing a brick wall.

Don’t Forget the Little Things

Parenting moments aren’t always what you thought they would be. At other times, however, they are everything and more. Such as a trip to the grocery store without a breakdown. Or a meal when your child eats off of your plate. Or maybe it is just getting your coffee in on time. These seem minute, yet they total a victory. Being a dad is not a series of great moments. It is these little moments, collected together, that make it so special and worthwhile.

**Contributed post