How to psychologically prepare for becoming a father
Being a father is a unique and responsible role, and it’s normal to feel excitement, fear, and nervousness when you learn that you’re about to become one. Of course, it’s impossible to be “fully prepared” for this, but there are steps you can take to mentally and emotionally adjust to the changes in your life.
7 Ways to psychologically prepare for becoming a father
1. Do your research
Many fathers don’t know what to expect when it comes to parenting and are often afraid of new responsibilities. If you’re feeling lost, research what’s ahead of you is worth researching. Check out books, podcasts, or videos, and consult with experts to learn more about the topics that concern you.
Knowing how a child develops in the womb, what kind of care is needed immediately after birth, and how you can help your wife or girlfriend through a difficult pregnancy and childbirth will help you feel connected to your child even before he is born and make this experience more enjoyable.
2. Take an active part in pregnancy
Your journey as a father begins long before the birth of a child. Do not refuse to attend the first ultrasound and listen to the fetal heartbeat — it may seem that these are not very important things, but it is these moments that help you feel that your child will be born soon. Actively participating in your girlfriend’s pregnancy will help you be more confident, get closer to her, and support her in this challenging moment.
Here are a few things worth doing: share the news with the girl’s friends and family; accompany her at least to some medical appointments.; — study the stages of pregnancy, the development of the child, and the changes that have to go through; — attend pregnancy classes and parenting courses together; — discuss the delivery plan with the girl, think over the details; — ask your doctor any questions you might have about pregnancy, childbirth, and baby care.
It is also important to listen to a girl’s fears and worries and be sensitive to her needs and emotions to provide timely support. Visit. A F R I N I K . C O M . For the full article. I would like to mention one more important point. Pregnancy is a complex process that causes a lot of discomfort, and toxicosis alone is worth it. During this period, it is important to take on some household chores and try to lighten the load for your girlfriend.
Believe me, she will appreciate your efforts, and your relationship will improve. In addition, after the baby is born, you will also have to ensure she can safely recover and take care of the baby. It may be time to learn how to cook different healthy dishes and plan your time to have enough time for household chores.
3. Accept the fact that life will change
Many people fear their lives will change after the birth of a child. Parenthood is a constant responsibility, very different from any other role you’ve ever had to play. And if earlier your needs, thoughts, and desires were in the first place, then after the birth of a child, they may fade into the background. Coming to terms with the fact that everything will be different is difficult and may take some time.
It is helpful to write down your thoughts and fears in a diary and discuss them with your girlfriend, family, and friends who have become parents. People with children can help calm down, tune in to the best, and prepare for fatherhood’s difficulties and joys. In addition, you need to realize one simple truth: as your life changes, so will you. So you will be able to cope with everything that has to go through — you need to trust the process and strive to learn more.
4. Remember your childhood
When you are preparing to become a father, remember your childhood. Thinking about when you were a child will help you relive that experience and remember all the pleasant moments. It’s also necessary to consider how your parents’ parenting style shaped who you are today. After evaluating such moments, you will understand what kind of father you want to be for your child and what things you would never want for him.
5. Imagine what kind of father you want to be
Thinking about your values and what kind of father you want to become for your child can be helpful. You can imagine how you will behave in certain situations, which aspects of the “new life” you look forward to, and which ones frighten you. This will help you prepare for joys and difficulties and respond accordingly.
6. Parenting is hard, so it’s alright to be messy
Parenthood can give you many pleasant moments but doesn’t always come quickly. The first year after the birth of a baby is often the most difficult, as you are exhausted, stressed, sleep-deprived, and trying to take care of the baby as best you can. Although movies and social media sometimes portray parents as ideal beings who have everything under control, the reality is not always like that. It is vital to keep your expectations realistic, stay kind to yourself, and not forget about your mental and physical health.
7. Create a support system
Please take care in advance to create a support system to help when you or your girlfriend feel tired of caring for a child. Talk to the expectant mother about roles and parenting styles, coordinate expectations, and decide how you will share tasks and responsibilities. Look for ways to help and support each other. It is also worth enlisting the support of close friends and family members.
Ask them if they are ready to help you if you need it, and talk to you about the problems and experiences of parenthood when you are confused. Finding out which specialists you can contact in case of difficulties is equally essential. For example, you can find out in advance about the cost of hiring a babysitter, nurse, doula, and other employees who can help if necessary.
