Everyday Habits That Will Make You A Better Dad

Most people will agree that fatherhood is about providing. But providing isn’t only about pulling out your wallet. Fathers also provide love, security, direction, and emotional stability. The best fathers have managed to master this, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Being a great dad is a process, as great dads aren’t born that way. It involves the decisions you make every day and the habits you develop over time. So, do you want to be a better dad to your family? Of course, you do! Here are some daily habits that can help you.
Make time to play
Most fathers spend countless hours at work trying to provide for their families. But when was the last time you played with your family? Kids especially love to play, and nothing makes them happier than enjoying playful moments with their busy dad, especially if they see little of you during the day. But playing isn’t only beneficial to your child, as it helps you ease stress, which puts you in an overall better mood. So, instead of walking straight into your room after work, do more than just say hi to your kids. Take a few minutes each day to play with them. You can also consider doing activities with them over the weekend. For example, if you or your older child loves martial arts, try enrolling in a Shaolin kung fu school together. You can also go fishing together, hit the gym, or even attend concerts together. 
Exercise regularly
Exercising is essential, and you can find creative ways to insert it into your daily activities, no matter how busy you are. Some studies have shown that exercising can make you a better parent, as it results in better sleep, improves memory, relieves stress, and boosts your overall mood. You’ll find exercising particularly important if your job or daddy duties leave you stressed too often. And speaking of stress, the next point is also important. 
Be engaging 
Playing is a great way to engage with your kids and family, but it’s only one aspect. “Engaging” here means making an effort to be a part of almost every aspect of your child’s development. Some daily habits that can make you a more engaging father include limiting distractions at home to spend quality time with your family. For example, regardless of how tied up your job gets you, being an engaging father here means taking time off work to be present at your child’s school activities. 
Waking up a few minutes earlier
As often as possible, try waking up about 30 minutes before your usual time. This way, you can avoid rushing out from home because you’re running late. The earlier you rise, the easier it is to spend your mornings with your family, helping your kids prepare for school, or being present behind the breakfast table. You can also use your early morning periods to prepare yourself for the day by meditating, exercising, reading a little, or doing something you usually don’t have enough time to do during the day.