Being a dad is probably the most fulfilling achievement you’ll ever have, but it comes with its share of challenges. For a new dad, this is a unique experience you can never be fully prepared for.
You might have read all the books on parenting, bought everything your child needs, and talked to older couples, but you’ll still have to go through a unique, sometimes stressful experience individually. How do you deal with these stressful occasions?
Get Some Time Away
It might feel selfish, but you need quality time away from the stresses at home and work to rejuvenate and unwind. A day off with your friends might be all you need to feel happier, in control, and relaxed. If you can, go fishing, exploring, or swimming and let your wife know you’ll not be reachable for a few hours.
If you choose to go fishing, shop for bass fishing gear that works. You’ll have fun, and at the end of the day, you’ll have enough fish as evidence of your hard work.
You don’t have to go out every weekend, but quality time to yourself or with friends once or twice a month is refreshing.
Get a Sustainable Schedule
Having a newborn means your schedule has to include the new addition. It might be stressful going to work in the morning when you only had two or three hours of sleep the entire night. Also, you might be forced to stay at home or take the baby to the pediatrician when unwell. Such instances disrupt your work schedule making you more stressed.
To avoid such, have a more flexible work schedule. If you can, delegate some of your responsibilities and put systems in place that allow you to work even when at home. You will not feel the pressure to go to the office every day, and you will spend quality time with your family.
Spend Time with your Wife
Although you’ll have more responsibilities when a new baby arrives, you still need to spend time with your wife. Make sure to set some time every day, even if it’s just one hour away from work and baby demands.
Get to talk about yourselves, how to create a better work-life balance, and be happy to have each other. When your relationship is solid and fulfilling, you’ll be less stressed.
Help Your Wife Relax
When your wife is healthy and relaxed, everyone, including you and the baby, will be happier. The stresses of keeping up with the baby and home demands can be too much for your wife to handle. She might be too tired, edgy, or depressed when stressed out. This will affect your relationship, her ability to take care of the baby, and her wellbeing.
Encourage her to take some time to unwind, get out and meet friends. If you can, spend time with the baby when she relaxes or get someone to help with the household chores.
As the baby grows older, you’ll get more time to relax. Life will not be as stressful as it is with a newborn in the house.
