As a father, it's difficult to pour into your family when you so badly need to be poured into yourself.

Our role is to be providers, protectors, encouragers, problem solvers, care givers, lovers, planners, you name it. There are numerous facets to these titles of our life.

At times it can be overwhelming.

In addition, it's in our nature to not show these feelings of pressure.

We withhold these emotions in order to show strength and resilience to our children.
We don't off load them because we don't want to put anything else on our wife's plate.
We bottle it up because that's the "manly" thing to do.

Well, let me say this. When you are so wound up that you no longer have the capacity to loving and patiently serve your family, you are not being a man.

A man deals with the barriers in his life no matter their form, physical or emotional.

Men, do what you need to do in order to sustainably carry your mental load.

It could be grabbing a drink with a few buddies, going to the gym, or simply sitting on the back porch by yourself every now and then. Whatever it is, find your haven. Your method of rejuvenation. Then, speak to and plan with your wife for this time, explaining it's importance.

To clarify, this is NOT an excuse to dump the kids on her. This is a conscious, planned decision to ensure your are mentally present and able to properly lead your family.

Take time for yourself in order to then be able to better serve your family.

- Chad Vrla
Founder of TheIntentionalFather.com

#bepresent #BeIntentional #theintentionalfather