He’s still your kid’s dad, but the “new man” is Dad 2.0. He’s the guy who knows how to wield an iron and the inherent value of dryer sheets. He knows the only brand of peanut butter that’s acceptable and that the kids won’t eat the jam with the little seeds. He can de-crust bread like a boss. He lets his daughter get him dressed up and makeup’d. He understands that “because I told you so” isn’t actually an application of logic.
Dad 2.0 cares deeply about that little progeny running around the house, sticking chess pieces up his nose. But Dad 2.0 also cares about himself. He’s not being selfish or vain. He just understands that being a dad changes you, but it doesn’t mean you stop being you.
Pop culture has been telling moms for years that they need to take time for themselves, live their best lives and not let motherhood be the only thing that defines them. And thank goodness for that because moms like me can hit the gym, care about my appearance and indulge in some Botox without judgement.
But dads also deserve to be a part of this conversation and Dad 2.0 is listening, as evidenced by the fact that cosmetic procedures for men are on the rise. And as they rise, any stigma surrounding men getting procedures declines.
What it means to be a father has evolved over the years. They are still respected and loved unconditionally, but I see more dads having fun with their children. They’re building meaningful relationships by being so much more than a disciplinarian or worse, a dictator.
They see something that they want to change in themselves and they take action. Maybe it’s something big like a dead-end job or poor health, but maybe it’s something simpler like thinning hair, heavy eyelids, or wrinkles. These are the easy fixes—the ones where you take the time to consult with a plastic surgeon, share your concerns, make a plan of action, then take it.
Partners and kids have long valued Dad, but Dad 2.0 values himself as well.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad 2.0!
