Well, if there’s anything I’ve learned from being a dad of three incredible, but let’s be honest, exhausting kiddos, it’s that parenting is not a walk in the park. You’ve got your moments of pure love and joy, sure, but also times of frustration, bewilderment, and lots and lots of exhaustion. Now, imagine stumbling upon a toolbox, filled with daily nuggets of wisdom that could help you navigate this wild rollercoaster ride called parenthood – that’s “The Daily Dad” by Ryan Holiday.
As a dad, I was drawn to this book for a million reasons.
I just felt on some level like I needed this book! We, as Dad’s especially, don’t have a “manual”.
And boy, was it a refreshing change from the other parenting books out there. No overwhelming theories, no impossible standards – just down-to-earth, relatable wisdom to help us be the best dads we can be. Like a trusted old friend, or a wise mentor Yoda, this book feels like it’s there to help you through the mud, kind of like a Sun Tzu aphorism.
Ryan Holiday, a bestselling author (and a father of two, so he knows the drill), presents us with 366 brief, manageable meditations on fatherhood. From personal experiences to lessons learned from big names like Theodore Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth II, and Marcus Aurelius, there’s a little something for every dad out there. It’s like a hearty meal of oatmeal, broken down into bite-sized, easy-to-digest morsels.
I found myself nodding along as I read through each page. I also did the audiobook, which I would consume at like, seriously – 2am – and I could feel Holiday’s thoughts seeping into my life throughout the day. Whether it’s about loving unconditionally, nurturing with kindness, or expressing gratitude, these themes hit home. And with each short entry of about 150 words, you can squeeze in a little me-time, even on the most chaotic days (like when your kid decides to turn your living room into a Lego minefield).
Now, let’s be clear. This isn’t a step-by-step parenting manual. Instead, it’s a celebration of fatherhood and all the joy, challenges, and learning it brings. It’s like a pat on the back from a fellow dad, acknowledging that we’re all in this together, trying to raise our little ones the best way we know how.
The first time I heard of “The Daily Dad” was on a podcast while washing the dishes (remember the me-time I mentioned?). It was a breath of fresh air amidst the sea of pop culture and news. Suddenly, here was a podcast – and later a book – speaking my language, talking about the daily triumphs and tribulations of parenthood.
“Father Knows Best”
You remember those 1950’s TV shows, right? Like ‘Father Knows Best’ where dad would sit back, puffing a cigar, ready with sage advice at the drop of a hat. But we aren’t living in a black and white sitcom anymore of the 1950’s. It’s time to put out that metaphorical cigar and dive into the beautiful mess that is active parenting.
This book, it doesn’t just hand you a manual on how to be a dad. Instead, it shares Holiday’s own experiences as a father of two. It’s a celebration of the changing role of a dad – from a stern breadwinner to an actively engaged parent. It’s about transforming from the silent guy who disappears into the mancave, the garage, or the local bar after work, to the superhero who wears a make-believe cape one minute and a tea party hat the next.
Now, don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a little downtime after a long day. But what Holiday reminds us is that being present for our kids doesn’t mean we have to run the show. We’re here to provide the fuel, the love, and the space for them to grow, explore, and just be kids. In return, we get to witness their laughter, their wild imaginations, and those priceless moments of childhood that just fly by all too quickly.
“The Daily Dad” is like a compass, guiding us towards a more fulfilling, more active role in our kids’ lives. It urges us to reclaim that sense of community, of belonging, that comes from a tight-knit family. And it reminds us that our job as dads isn’t confined to the 9-to-5. It’s a 24/7 gig, filled with love, laughter, tears, and a whole lot of learning.
Which is great, right? As a Dad, I’m always nervous that I’m simply “not doing enough”. This book is a great reminder that we don’t always have to be perfect. And sure, sometimes, we might even get mad at our little rascal after he throws a fit in the restaurant in front of everyone. But our temporary anger doesn’t mean we don’t love him! That’s just part of being three – they are chaos-making machines!
So, folks, let’s embrace this new era of fatherhood. Let’s put down that paintbrush, step out of the mancave, and dive into the wonderful chaos that is parenting. Because, at the end of the day, there’s nothing more rewarding than being an active, loving, and present dad. And with a guide like “The Daily Dad,” we’re all in good hands.
John Michaels, a Missoula native and author, has been captivating readers with his writing for years. A graduate of Brown University’s esteemed creative writing program, Michaels has spent the majority of his career crafting stories that resonate with his readers and capture the essence of the human experience. Despite the demands of raising children, Michaels has continued to pursue his passions, finding solace in the bustling downtown Missoula scene. There, he spends his free time honing his craft, whether it be working on short stories, playing music, or dedicating himself to his work at Sunflower Counseling, MT.
