In this episode we break down the three critical mental shifts that separate dads who thrive from those who spend years trying to recreate their old life - and why your kids pay the price when you resist the transformation. The 3 Mental Shifts: Stop romanticizing your pre-kid life - It probably wasn't as great as you remember Embrace that it's supposed to be hard - The struggle is the point, not something to escape Become what you want to leave behind - Your kids will become who you are, not who you tell them to be In this episode, we get real about: How the hardest parts of early parenthood forge you into the dad your kids need Why "me time" and old hobbies might be holding you back from real fulfillment The difference between being selfish and becoming the example your kids need How to start becoming the father you want your kids to see (even if you feel like a beginner) This isn't about perfection - it's about evolution. Your kids are watching everything you do, and they'll become a reflection of who you are right now. The question is: are you becoming someone worth following? Key takeaways: ✓ Your pre-kid life was probably more self-centered than you remember ✓ Early parenting struggles exist to transform you, not torment you ✓ Kids model behavior, not advice - become what you want them to be ✓ You can start changing who you are today, regardless of your past ✓ The best gift you can give your kids is becoming a better version of yourself Perfect for new dads, expecting fathers, and anyone who's still trying to fit kids into their old life instead of growing into their new one. Keywords: New dad advice, fatherhood transformation, parenting mindset, dad psychology, becoming a father, parenting struggles, dad development, family leadership