25 simple ideas for fatherhood in a crazy world with a lot of deep confusion about being a dad:

1. Your kids are watching you, and your actions speak louder than words. Don’t just talk about it. Be about it.

2. Never turn down hugs, cuddles, kisses, or invitations to hold hands. It won’t always be this way.

3. Don’t repress your feelings; let them see you feel deeply. Show them that you can hold and regulate your emotions.

4. There may be tension between your work and your kids. Don’t ignore the tension or push it away. It’s there to get you to pause and reflect. Do that, and the right path emerges.

5. If you are worried about your kid becoming addicted to their phone, start by evaluating your own digital habits.

6. Be sure your kids see you loving and respecting the women in your life.

7. A growth mindset says praise effort not results, and it’s super important—but also tell your kid you love them just for being who they are.

8. Don’t take youth sports too seriously—it’s not about you, its about them.

9. You don’t have to be perfect. Just be good enough.

10. Let your kids see your non-dualities. My kids see my love of deadlifting and also my love of books. They see me be tough, and they see me when I am feeling weak and vulnerable. Showing them this gives them permission to contain their own multitudes.

11. Take care of your own health, physical and emotional.

12. Don’t neglect friendships. It’s important for your kids to see you building relationships too.

13. If you think your child has something to tell you, don’t try to force it out of them. Play with them instead. Do this, and they’ll share on their own.

14. Respond not react. (This isn’t easy.)

15. When you mess up—which you inevitably will—say you are sorry. Explain what you did wrong and how you’ll try to do better in the future.

16. Let your kids see you excited and alive, whether it’s from work or hobbies. It will help them seek excitement and aliveness in themselves.

17. Have rules around raising your voice. I try never to yell unless it’s an acute safety issue. When I mess up, I apologize.

18. The days are long but the years are short. It's a cliche but it's true.

19. The best way to express your love is through your attention. Not gifts. Not money. Not words. Attention.

20. You may fail from time to time. I often feel like I’m coming up short. I think it is just part of being a dad.

21. Right when you think you’ve got things figured out they change. This happens forever, I suppose.

22. It’s beautiful watching your kids grow up, but it’s also hard. I want my kids to evolve and mature. At the same time, I desperately want to hit pause.

23. Be there for your kids when they succeed. Be there for your kids when they fail. Just be there.

24. Laugh together every chance you get.

25. Love your kid like it’s the most important thing there is—because it is.