When it comes to fatherhood, presence is more important than anything else.
Presence with your wife.
How you treat her will show your boys how to treat women and show your girls how they should expect to be treated.
Presence with your kids.
I have seven kids, and there are more days than I care to admit that it’s hard to give each of them the attention I feel they deserve. But I have a strict rule, when I’m focused on them, I’m 100% focused on them.
Presence is more than just being present.
It’s about providing physical and mental security and stability.
Presence is controlling your temper, so when you’re actually mad it’s clearly understood. When you’re joyful, it’s contagious.
Presence is about showing and teaching your family without telling them. It’s about providing a steady influence and being a safe place for them to share their worries, fears, and desires.
So much of this comes back to being like the father in the parable of the prodigal son. Be willing to let them go, but more willing to invite them back.
Get down on the floor with your kids.
When you’re down to their level, it’s an invitation.
They want to play, they want to share space, and they feel seen by you.
QUOTABLE
“Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.”
- Matthew 5:37
(From KC: Growing up my dad would tell us:
"Say what you mean, and mean what you say."
It was a good reminder to avoid excuses, and act with integrity.)
ROBBY RECOMMENDS
I’m going to be a nerd here, but the tool I always have with me and makes my life easier every day is the Uni Ballpoint Pen Jetstream 3 Color. Three colors in one pen!
If you were jealous because you didn’t have a pen like this as a kid, realize that you’re an adult now and can have cool things too.
Oh, and I always carry my Combat Rosary. Having a physical reminder to pray keeps me focused on what’s most important.
SHAMELESS PLUG
Special thanks to Robby Miles for today's issue!
You can find him at robbymiles.com or connect with him on LinkedIn where Robby mostly shares about newsletter growth and monetization.
If you prefer spicier takes say something dumb on Twitter/X and tag @robbymiles.
Thank you for supporting the 30 Days of Dads series.
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And remember...
Move your body.
Clear your mind.
Repeat.
Keep up the good work!
-KC
DAD JOKE 🐇
How do you catch a unique rabbit? - you nique up on it
How do you catch a tame rabbit? - the tame way
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