5 Productivity Tips for Busy Dads
Want to become a productivity machine and still have time for your partner, kids, and career? Here are five tips to help you out, from one busy dad to another.
As a dad of two little boys, I now appreciate the phrase, “Time speeds up when you have kids.”
It feels like only yesterday my wife and I were chatting about the idea of having kids someday and how we wanted to be the best parents we could be.
And now here we are — two kids later — and I can say with certainty that parenthood is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.
But along with the joys of fatherhood comes a new set of challenges, chief among them being the need to learn how to balance work and family life.
I’m sure all you dads out there can relate — it’s tough enough trying to get everything done at work without having to worry about rushing home to spend time with the kids.
And when you’re finally home, and it’s time to wind down for the day, the last thing you want to do is try and be super dad and entertain your kids.
So how can we find a balance between work and family life? How can we be productive at work without sacrificing our time with our kids?
While I’m nowhere near perfect, I have found five simple tips that have helped me become a more productive dad:
- Build an unstoppable morning routine
- Know when to unplug and tune-in
- Set clear boundaries with your partner
- Make time for self-care that works for you
- Find a hobby that brings you joy
So, are you ready to boost your productivity and become the best dad you can be? Let’s get started!
1. Build an unstoppable morning routine
The first step to becoming a more productive dad is to build a strong morning routine.
I know, I know — mornings are tough. Especially when you have young kids at home. But trust me, a solid morning routine will set you up for success all day long.
But here’s the trick, you don’t have to (and shouldn’t) try and do everything at once.
Start small and focus on building one healthy habit at a time.
For me, that habit is exercise. I make it a point to get out for a run first thing in the morning before my brain has a chance to talk me out of it.
Exercise not only gets my heart rate up and clears my head, but it also gives me a sense of accomplishment that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
And on those mornings when I’m really struggling to get out the door, I remind myself that I only have to run for 20 minutes.
That’s it.
I can do anything for 20 minutes. So can you.
2. Know when to unplug and tune-in
The second tip for becoming a more productive dad is learning when to unplug from work and tune in to your family.
This one can be tough, especially if you’re the type of person who is always connected to work.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not perfect at this, but I have found that setting clear boundaries between work and home life has been essential for my sanity.
As I work from home, it can be tempting to check my work email or jump on a work call while my kids are trying to talk to me. But I’ve learned that those quick interruptions can quickly turn into much longer distractions.
So, I’ve made it a rule to unplug from work when I’m with my family. If I’m working, I’m focused on work. If I’m with my family, I’m present with them.
It’s not always easy, but it’s essential — especially if you are trying to be a more productive dad.
3. Set clear boundaries with your partner
The third tip for becoming a productive dad is to set clear boundaries with your partner.
This one is important for two reasons.
First, it will help you create a more efficient division of labor at home.
And second, it will help you avoid any potential conflict about who is doing what.
It’s easy to get caught up in the “who-does-what” in parenting. The key is constant, consistent communication that lets you each play to your strengths — and be willing to sacrifice when necessary.
4. Make time for self-care that works for you
The fourth tip for becoming a more productive dad is to make time for self-care.
Now, I know what you’re thinking — self-care is for women, not men. But trust me, self-care is essential for anyone who wants to be productive.
For me, self-care means making time for things that make me feel good. That might be going for a run, reading a book, or taking a hot bath.
It’s important to find what works for you and make time for it every week. Self-care is not selfish — it’s necessary.
5. Find a hobby that brings you joy
The final tip for becoming a more productive dad is to find a hobby that brings you joy.
For me, that hobby is writing. I love sitting down at my computer and letting the words flow. It’s therapeutic for me, and it helps me to clear my head.
(Yeah, I know that’s close to my actual job, but this writing is just. for. me.)
But it doesn’t have to be writing. It could be painting, woodworking, or gardening. The important thing is that you find something that you enjoy and make time for it.
I have friends who love building wood projects for their homes and others who love playing video games.
The key is to find something that brings you joy and makes you feel good. When you have that, you’ll be a more productive dad — and a happier one too.
How to Be a Productive Father
Being a productive dad doesn’t have to be difficult. But it can be hard to find the time and energy to do everything that you need to do. By following these five simple tips, you can strike the perfect balance between work and family.
- Build an unstoppable morning routine
- Know when to unplug and tune-in
- Set clear boundaries with your partner
- Make time for self-care that works for you
- Find a hobby that brings you joy
When you have a system that works for you, being a productive dad is easy — and it’s something you can feel good about. So go out there and get it done!
After all, your family is counting on you to create a life worth living.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there! Thanks for all that you do. What tips would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!
