Over My Dad Body

Congratulations on becoming a parent! No doubt, parenting is a remarkable journey packed with unforgettable moments. But let’s face it. It is also a chaotic adventure that will require you to seriously tap into your survival skills. So, buckle up as we talk about the ups and downs of early parenting and how you can withstand the wildest rollercoaster ride of your life.

Sleep Deprivation

Remember how you had to be constantly reminded about the benefits of 8 hours of sleep? Well, say goodbye to those peaceful nights of uninterrupted rest. Like clockwork, sleep deprivation becomes a rite of passage for new parents. Now, you’ll cherish any opportunity to catch even just a few winks.

Pro tip: Embrace power naps like they are the secret potion to life. And, if all else fails, welcome caffeine and your baby’s favorite lullaby as your new best friends.

Baby Colic

Beware of the gassy monster! While your sweet little bundle of joy effortlessly brings forth oohs and awws, they may also unleash a never-ending symphony of cries. Better yet, just when you thought you had it all figured out, your baby decides to switch into full-blown colic mode.

It is understandable how you might try every remedy in the book, and just when you are about to give up, it all magically stops. Hang in there, for this too shall pass. Just remember to keep your senses and your sense of humor intact.

Understanding Your Baby’s Cues

Ever dreamt of being a detective trying to decipher a secret language? This is your moment. Babies don’t talk yet, but they communicate with you in mysterious ways. Remember that each baby is unique, so all those “guides” on crying may or may NOT apply to your little one.

Embrace the trial-and-error method and simply trust your instincts. You’ll eventually become a baby whisperer and understand your baby’s every coo and cry.

Coping with Worrying All the Time

Become a parent, and suddenly the world becomes a dangerous place of sharp corners, germs, and potential hazards at every turn. You’ll sanitize everything, question your parenting skills, and constantly check if your baby is breathing. All of these from someone who struggled to keep their dorm room clean for four years.

However, it’s normal to worry, but try not to go overboard. Take a deep breath, trust yourself, and remember that you are the best person for this job.

Dealing with Unsolicited Advice

Apart from the list above, you have to prepare yourself for the avalanche of unsolicited advice. From meddling strangers to well-meaning family members, everyone seems to have an opinion on how you should raise your child.

Simply smile, nod politely, and do what you think is best. Remember that when it comes to your baby, you are the expert.

Handling Friends and Family

Ah, the joys of being in the presence of well-meaning friends and family members who believe they know better than you. Expect them to flood you with judgments, opinions, and the occasional unwanted criticism.

However, don’t forget that it is not rude to set boundaries and calmly remind them that you’ve got this and that everything is under control. Surround yourself with a support system that offers genuine guidance and respects your choices.

Trying to be a Strong, Independent, Fully-Functioning Adult

If you thought before you had your life together, becoming a parent forces you to face a new reality. Being a fully-functioning adult and balancing it with parenthood is undoubtedly a juggling act like no other. Your time is no longer your own, and even taking a shower is, at times, a luxury.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, find moments of self-love amidst all the madness, and embrace the chaos that is parenthood. Believe that you are doing an incredible job, even if you feel unsure of it.

Being a single dad is a wild ride of unexpected twists and turns. Embrace the sleepless nights, the all-day diaper changes, and the unpredictable moments. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all advice for new parents and that every journey is a unique adventure. Trust yourself, add humor to the challenges, and simply cherish the precious moments. After all, parenthood is a realm where chaos and laughter coexist.