10 Challenges Every Dad Must ConquerSample

Day 11 You don’t have enough energy for work and home. 

The most important part of your day 

“This is it. It’s their only childhood. The three hours I’ll have with them until they go to bed are short. It’s go time.” This is the pep talk I gave myself while I sat in my car—having just pulled into the garage. Have you ever felt like you didn’t have the energy to be the dad you should? Have you ever walked in the door and wanted to be alone? Have you ever felt like you gave your best at work but weren’t able to give your best at home?

You’re not alone.

Do your kids get the same level of engagement and focus as your clients? Does your boss capture more of your enthusiasm than your wife? Your job can pull the best out of you and leave you with nothing left to bring home. 

You should do good work. As Paul encouraged in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.” But being a great employee is no excuse for being a disconnected dad at the end of the day.

My main goal in parenting is to raise children who become productive, mature, Jesus-loving adults. My day job is important but it’s the nights and weekends where my true legacy will show up. Your family should clearly know your time with them is the most important part of the day.

A key to having more energy at home is to slow down. Slowing down helps you be fully present and engaged. 

I still give myself a pep talk sometimes. But then, I take a deep breath and walk through the door to hear the excited yell of “Daddy!” I know that one day I will walk through the door and not hear that anymore. 

My job can always find someone else to replace me, but my kids can never hire another dad. This is their only childhood and I’m going to make it count.

Is the most important part of your day when you get home? Do your children know?