How can I be a better dad when I feel completely lost?

QuesWolPop

I wish I hadn't become a dad because I feel like I have no clue about parenting. I don’t have anyone to show me how to calm my daughter down. To make things worse, my wife’s angry that I don’t know how to interact with our little girl. I try, but I just feel so inadequate.

Zeropine

Keep trying even if u fail. Effort and presence means a lot

KevTheRev

Every dad here began without any knowledge; they’ll teach you patience and love that’s the beauty of fatherhood. It’s okay to fail, just don’t snap and hurt the baby, because that’s when you cross the line. If you feel like you’re about to, call someone right away and get help. It’s okay to fail; it’s okay you’re trying.

MoodMosaic777

It is acceptable. I felt profoundly lost with my first one. I consistently tried to imagine what I would want or need if I were that small, even if it was merely a walk outside on the lawn. A modest change can shift their mood quickly.

spinrevus87

Keep showing up, buddy. No one's got the perfect dad meta, and nobody here can hand you a cheat sheet every kid's a unique class, so just keep grinding.

PizzaWrathSlate

My daughter didn’t get much comfort from me until she was about 18 months old, maybe a little older. It’s not that I didn’t try; she spent most of her day with her mom. The primary parent who can offer the most comfort is simply a fact. Keep spending time with her, and the bond will develop.

Electruckdriver

I’ve been there, that early phase just a phase. They pick up your vibe, no doubt, and they’ll respond. Parenting isn’t a walk in the park; we learn right alongside our kids as they grow. Keep at it, buddy every effort now builds a stronger bond later. You’re her dad own it and feel proud!

realMush21

Stay chill, stay in the moment, and just keep at it! It’s all about contact and connection don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be!

dmground45

Alright, bro. First, tell that inner voice to SHUT UP. You don’t need that negativity. There isn’t ONE right way to be a dad. As everyone says, just be there be present because some dads aren’t. The fact that you care is all that matters. Hit us up here, watch a YouTube video or three, read some articles, but stay present and don’t give up.

You won’t always find the perfect solution. I grew up without my dad and I made the mistake of not talking to anyone about what I was going through especially after my divorce. The biggest thing is being present and using the love you have for your daughter to discover what works best for you both. It definitely gets bettre as they age, but never discount yourself.

lordtobasco

We only learn by FAILING. Eventually we figure it out. I knew nothing, too had a deadbeat dad and no way to do anything. Just keep trying; it gets EASIER.

RikimaruGamers

If you feel lost you are doing something right

wadesawyer

Parenting classes? Total game‑changer. I rolled into dad mode feeling confident grew up dad‑less, so I swore I’d do everything for my kids. Still, I logged into three different classes. Yeah, a lot’s common sense, but I picked up sick tactics and fresh mind‑sets that leveled me up big time..Most of these sessions are cheap or even free. Zero risk just a few grind hours. Could seriously buff you into a dad you’re proud of. 💪

gallowcrimson7

None of us really know what we’re doing, but we’re each doing our best to figure it out as we go.

polikrato

I’m still figuring things out, honestly I didn’t know what I was doing and I’m still learning. I just take it one step at a time, asking for forgiveness and a bit of grace along the way. Gripe water has been a total lifesaver I wish I could’ve invested in it for our little one. We’d give it to him whenever he was upset, as long as his diaper wasn’t dirty or wet and he wasn’t hungry just a little sip, a cuddle, and some soothing. You’ll get the hang of it, friend. Give it time.

clockworkxharry52

I’m sure a lot of people have felt this way before. In the beginning I struggled because my dad wasn’t really in my life, and my son didn’t really want anything to do with me. You’ve got to stay consistent it’s okay to feel down. Keep trying, even when it feels awkward. Me and my son have the best connection now. I hope things get better for you.

Flamecrust23

Bro we all learn as we go no manual lol

relevantdimming

It's a process, brother you learn as you go. None of us knew what we were doing at first. You got this.

JabbenTret16

At one point I thought I had messed up with my daughters. Five years later we have an awesome relationship, even though they’re teens. We learn as we go. It isn’t always quick or easy. Pay attention to them and discover what drives their moods. You’ve got this dad thing it just takes practice!

Kalimdor

Yeah, honestly, none of us figure it out right away. It’s just on‑the‑job learning, especially with an angry boss.

KoalaKrunch85

Yes, dude, I had the same issue with my little girl. I have found that being very gentle and calm works amazingly. And always give HUGS to reassure that you still love her. The HUGS changed everything. As far as being a parent, I always say it’s the most important job a man can have, and yet we get no training for it.