Too often as men, we let ourselves down as husbands and fathers. We spend too much time at work and spend too little time with our families. And when we do get to spend time with the people we love at home, we are sometimes overly-stressed and snappy with them because of the toll work has taken on us.

We are speaking generally, of course, but it might be that you are relating to what we are saying. And if so, you might want to focus on the following areas, as by doing so, you will be able to give your family the best of you.

Don’t work more hours than you need to 

Many of us work longer hours because we are trying to provide for our families. There is a logic here, of course. We work because we want to give them the best in life, and we work so we can reduce those debts that could one day impact the future of our family. 

But when we overcommit ourselves to work, we miss out on family time. 

We might bring work home and spend hours locked away in the study. 

And we might bring home the stresses of our long hours at work, and take those stresses out on our families. 

So don’t let work take precedence. Instead, try to find other ways to make extra money, perhaps through investments and Forex trading, as you wouldn’t need to spend extra hours in the office. 

And if you’re struggling with debts, look for ways to deal with them. Some people become secured party creditors to discharge debts that have been unfairly heaped upon them, so that could be an option. Or you might want to speak to a debt charity for advice on how to clear your debts in other ways. 

By taking these steps, you can work less and have more time with the people who matter to you the most (and these aren’t your boss and colleagues at work). 

Schedule time for your family

Admittedly, there will be times when work has to take precedence. Fine. But remember to book your weekends off. Schedule in times for family camping trips and other vacations away. And ensure such things as family movie nights and game nights are a regular fixture on your calendar. 

And when you have scheduled family time, make sure you stick to it. Don’t be tempted to have a night out on the town with your friends. And don’t be tempted to retreat to your man cave for the evening. These things are important too (you are allowed a social life and me-time), but don’t focus on these things when you have already promised your family you will spend time with them. 

Be present

Don’t nod and shake your head when your wife and children are speaking to you, with their words going in one ear and out of the other without recognition. Actively listen to what they are saying because you might miss out on something important if you do. Be present, ready, and alert to their wants and needs, and support them in ways that only a father can. They need you to be there for them, so be there!

So, what do you think? Can you commit to your family in the ways that we have mentioned? You might regret it if you don’t, especially if they grow distant from you, so follow our advice, and give them the very best of you.