The Dad Daughter Journey!
Dads, Step-Dads and Co-Parents…this one's for you!
While I focus a lot on the mamas, I definitely want to recognize how hugely impactful and important you father-figures are for adolescent daughters, too.
Which is why I’m hosting my 3rd Dads OnlyWorkshop. (The last 2 sold out!)
So often, fathers can feel lost in the shuffle during this period in life. Maybe you're feeling powerless, purposeless, or just plain clueless as your daughter distances herself from you with age. Memories of those excited hugs and giggles that were so easy to come by when she was little are still fresh for you. What happened to your little girl and that unique connection? How can you still tap into her world and be the person she knows she can come to for the little things as well as the hard stuff?
The fact of the matter is, it is not easy being an adolescent girl. And for the most part, fathers can’t comprehend it firsthand the same way mothers can. Of course, there are plenty of beautiful exceptions to this statement both in cis and transgender journeys. Regardless, pre-teen and teenage daughters (and all those who identify as she) can often feel like foreign beings to their dads.
And no father should have to tackle that confusion alone.
Because you dads are so needed in this sacred tapestry of parenthood. You have such a unique and important opportunity and responsibility to be your daughter’s safe space. Her rock. You are her example as she sets the bar on how she expects to be treated by others. Your presence and open communication fosters trust and allows her to express her authentic self.
I cannot emphasize how important this is. When you as a father demonstrate respect, kindness, and healthy boundaries within the family unit, you are laying the groundwork for her to seek out positive future relationships.
Of course, you’re a beautiful human who is going to have plenty of clumsy moments, many mistakes and tons of emotions that come along the way. It's a lot. And learning this new dance is like any other learning process that takes experiments, growth mindset, patience, grit and above all self compassion.
And so, I once again remind you that you don’t have to do it alone. Come join me on March 14th where we talk all things DAD.
In the meantime, I’d love to leave you with a couple of simple tips to help you find connection with your daughter right now:
1. Remember, you’re still her person & she cares about what you think:
Anytime you start a conversation with your daughter, pause briefly and remind yourself that you’re still hugely important to her. This little touch of mindfulness will help you be steadier and more present in your interaction, which won't go unnoticed by her (even though she may not express that).
2.Pay attention to how you listen to her:
Do you have a tendency to jump in and give her advice while she's talking? Catch yourself in those moments and try to just listen instead. There will always be time to help her problem-solve, but when she’s in the mood to share something with you, just practice listening, without an agenda. You may find some liberation in the process.
I can’t wait to work with you in March! As always, reach out with any questions, and cheers to being an awesome parent!
REGISTER HERE FOR THE DAD WORKSHOP
Remember, parenting is a true martial art, and nobody gets a hall pass. So let’s lean in together to build our community of conscious parents to help mold solid and confident humans!
With love and respect,
Deb
