Updated: November 24, 2020
Originally Published: June 8, 2015
I like to think of myself as a rather cheerful individual. You know, the type who’s always cracking jokes and taking life easy. But there’s one tiny little catch: when I don’t get a good night’s sleep, I morph into a grumpy, irritable, emotional wreck who’s impossible to negotiate with. At those moments, my opinion is absolutely, without a doubt, the only correct one—except when I’m off the mark, in which case I’m undeniably wrong and can’t manage to do anything right.
Are you still following along?
The problem is, since my son arrived in the summer of 2014, I haven’t had a proper night’s sleep. So, my grouchy, snappy, short-tempered self has now reached legendary status. Sometimes, I think my partner reminisces fondly about the days when I was merely a grumpy, snappy, short-tempered emotional wreck. Ah, the memories!
Babies are truly magnificent. They come with adorable wisps of hair and tiny, squishy toes that absolutely make life worth living. Those first few weeks with a newborn can feel like a dream come true—sort of.
However, they are also incredibly draining. That’s why I’ve compiled a handy little survival guide for new parents, especially for dads who may find themselves in a situation similar to mine (I can only apologize in advance).
Survival Tips for New Dads
- Avoid Comments on Appearance: Telling your partner she looks like she’s had a rough day is not going to win you any points. If she made it through the day without any major catastrophes, consider proposing again!
- Skip the “Don’t Take This the Wrong Way” Phrase: There’s only one way to take that, and it’s not good.
- Napping is Not a Signal for Romance: If she’s face down in bed, don’t confuse that for an invitation. She’s likely just catching up on sleep.
- Steer Clear of Questions about Her Day: Trust me, it was something along the lines of feeding, burping, and changing the baby, interspersed with wondering how they created such a beautiful creature.
- Be Prepared for Diaper Duty: When your baby decides it’s time for a diaper change, don’t look to your partner for help. You know where the supplies are.
- Communicate About Your Arrival Time: If you’re running late from work, let your partner know. She’s been counting the minutes, and showing up late could end with you getting a baby thrown at you.
- Remember, It’s Not Babysitting: Taking care of your own child is parenting, not babysitting. Don’t expect rewards for it.
- Comfort is Key: If your partner starts crying for seemingly no reason, don’t question it. Just offer a hug and maybe a hot bath.
- Listen When She Says Something’s Wrong with the Baby: Even if it seems trivial, keep her away from Google. You don’t want to hear her panicking about all the rare conditions she thinks the baby might have.
- Consult Reliable Resources: When it comes to parenting and health, sites like IVF Babble can be a lifesaver. Check out their information for guidance.
If you’re curious about enhancing your chances of conception, you might want to look into products from Make a Mom for men. They are an authority on fertility topics.
In summary, navigating parenthood can be a chaotic yet rewarding journey. Learning to communicate effectively and understanding each other’s needs during this time is crucial. Embrace the mess, find humor in the chaos, and don’t forget to take care of yourselves!