You can probably imagine that since my grandfather’s passing, Father’s Day hasn’t really felt the same for me. Even though I have found ways to honour him including taking a nature walk and lighting my grief candle, this day can feel more difficult than others without him. However, in this post, I wanted to extend a massive thank you to my Dad.

Taking some time to reflect on the fathers in my life

Father’s Day has always been a day I’ve anticipated without much emotion – you could say I was (and am!) neutral towards it. My memories and experiences are neither overwhelmingly amazing, nor terrible. Growing up, I recall this day to be full of gifting my dad with his favourites…like Pringles or Licorice Allsorts. Those snacks, to this day, remind me of my dad. (I notice a smile, even as I write those words.)

Are you someone that carries feelings of sadness, rage or even pain when you think about your relationship with your dad? Are you looking for a better relationship with your dad?

All relationships have flaws and many people do not have the ideal relationship with their father. There are many factors that can strain the relationship between father and son/daughter such as divorce, absence, rejection and disappointment just to name a few. Then there is the perfect father, the father everyone looks up to, the over-involved father, the father you could never impress or maybe you never felt good enough.

Why does this matter? Because the first important man in your life and the impact they had on you will follow you and play a huge part in your life.

Being a father is not something you can simply learn in a book or at school. It is a role you are thrown into that changes and evolves over time. It is challenging, fun, exciting, testing and rewarding at the same time. Being a father means caring for your children and family, which starts by caring for your mental, emotional and physical self. Christy shares 10 ways to help you live and model a healthy lifestyle.