Fathering
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Forget Resolutions, Try These Small Wins for Big Dad Impact

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New Year, Better Dad: Where Will You Grow?

Dad—this isn’t about making a New Year’s resolution you’ll forget by February.

(Unless you like resolutions—then by all means, make a great one.)

What this is about is seeing the natural momentum of a new year as your launchpad for something better: a better rhythm, better habits, and a better version of the dad your kids already love and need.

You don’t have to overhaul your entire life. You just have to take a step. And the beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start.

Where Are You Growing?

Before you dive into goal-setting or habit-tracking, stop and reflect:

  • What areas of fathering do you feel confident in?
  • What’s one place where you know there’s room to grow?

Maybe it’s being more emotionally present. Maybe it’s making time for deeper conversations. Or maybe you’re just trying to show up more consistently.

You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. That’s why we created a free tool just for dads: the 7 Secrets Profile and Master Class. It helps you see where you’re strong and where you can stretch—based on proven, practical principles of effective fathering.

Want to go even deeper? Invite your kids or their mom to complete the profile too. You’ll gain a 360° view of how you’re doing—and where your greatest growth can begin.

[Use the code: WELCOME to access it for free.]

A Few Things to Remember as You Grow

1. Be kind to yourself.
This isn’t a report card. It’s a mirror. And mirrors help you see—not shame. Every dad is in process, and grace is part of the growth.

2. Don’t overlook your strengths.
You’re doing more right than you think. Celebrate that. Your kids benefit every day from the things you already do well—so keep doing them.

3. Focus on one or two changes.
Overwhelm is the enemy of progress. If you see a dozen areas to improve, just pick one or two. Make a plan. Watch our short video or connect with a friend for accountability. As you grow in one area, the rest often follow.

Growth That Your Kids Can See

Real growth in fatherhood isn’t just personal—it’s relational. When you start working on a specific area of fathering, tell your kids about it.

Say something like, “This year I want to be more patient,” or “I’m trying to spend more one-on-one time with each of you.” Let them see that you’re learning too—and that they’re worth every effort.

Then back it up with your time, your words, and your presence.

Even small actions—like planning a Saturday outing, setting a monthly family night, or leaving a surprise note—can go a long way toward building trust and connection.

Make This Year Count

Your time with your kids isn’t endless. But it is filled with opportunity.

This year, instead of settling for good intentions, take action. One change. One habit. One honest reflection. That’s all it takes to shift the trajectory of your fatherhood.

You’ve got what it takes—and your kids are watching.

So why not start now?

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Questions to Consider

  • What’s one small area of fatherhood where you want to grow this year?
  • When you think about your past year as a dad, what’s something you’re proud of?
  • Are there rhythms or habits that have helped you grow in other areas of life? How can you apply those to fathering?
  • What’s one way you could involve your kids in your growth—by inviting feedback, sharing a goal, or letting them celebrate progress with you?
  • What would it look like to end this year knowing you invested well in your role as a father?