Male camaraderie and brotherhood has, in recent times, been described as toxic by some parts of the media and talking heads on TV, however, its importance cannot be underestimated… and is far from toxic.
Let’s take a look.
As always, I will try to use myself as an example as I discuss the benefits I’ve experienced by building friendships and how it has impacted my life as a Dad.
Before the recent international break, it was a great week for football, in terms of the number of Premier League games on TV, and it gave me the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with friends.
I have to admit, it has been great watching football from the comfort of my own home.
My mate lent me his FireStick with all of the sports channels on it and he came over to watch a few of the games.
The same friend has also joined the gym with me so we have been able to get fit and watch footy together.
It’s been great.
When I used to drink, I would often go to the pub to watch the football, however, I used to nearly always get drunk. And when you get drunk, you’re unlikely to want to go to the gym the next day!
So this new routine has been great for me.
And it has also benefitted my son.
Since I’ve been going to the gym my son has been asking to go with me. Unfortunately, he is too young, but the fact that he is showing interest is a positive sign.
He has also been able to witness his Dad having a laugh and forming a friendship with another Dad/Man, which again, is a positive thing.
Your kids need to see you interacting with other Dads and forming bonds with other Men.
They need to see you working on your fitness, exercising, eating well and looking after yourself.
This is why camaraderie and brotherhood are so important for Dads.
Of course, it is not just for the benefit of your kids.
Being a Dad/parent can be hard work so it is important that you have someone to talk to, to share parenting ideas with, discuss any problems you may be having and be there to support them when they need you – remember, helping someone else usually ends up helping you too.
The benefits of having a brotherhood of fellow dads go beyond parenting though, with time away from the kids imperative for every parent to recharge and socialise.
Plan nights out with your mates.
Spend the day away from the kids.
Do something you wouldn’t normally get to do.
By recharging away from your kids you’re going to come back refreshed and ready to go.
Which is a win-win for everyone.
- Surround yourself with a tribe
- Surround yourself with the best
- Surround yourself with winners
- Surround yourself with a brotherhood
- Surround yourself with people who lift you up
And you and your children will benefit.
Take care and #KeepInspiring,
Roscoe @ DMT
Did you enjoy this article or find it useful?
Feel feel to leave a comment below or give us your own views, on what topics you would like us to explore within the realms of dad life/ fatherhood, men’s health & dad social @dadmantalks
dadmantalks.wordpress.com 
I’ve found my kids have developed a fascination with this ‘gym’ place I often go to, the routines we have set our children’s minds for what is ‘normal’.
One of the highlights of lockdown was the home work outs as my kids often would join in!
LikeLiked by 1 person