What's the Danger in Trying to Be a Perfect Dad?
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What's the Danger in Trying to Be a Perfect Dad?

31:05 Jan 26, 2026
About this episode
Do you put pressure on yourself to be perfect? Not only is that impossible, but it’s a dangerous goal for dads. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about the myth of perfection, navigating our flaws, and being our best for our family.  Why This MattersYou don’t have to be perfect to be the perfect dad for your kids. What Do Dads Struggle With The Most? Wanting their kids to have a good lifeAiming to overcome mistakesRecognizing that being a dad is a serious jobWho Feels The Pressure?In 2018, the American Psychological Association found that “Perfectionism among (college students) significantly increased since the 1980s.” Nearly a decade later, those students are now adults and likely parents. This was 8 years ago… which means those same young people who craved perfection in 2018 are likely now parents. Are they striving to be perfect parents, too?What Makes a Perfect Father?Someone who is active, present, and cares about his kidsSomeone who understands being “perfect” adds incredible pressure. Someone committed to doing their best for his kids. Important Episode Timestamps00:00 – 03:24 | Why Dads Feel Pressure to Be Perfect03:24 – 05:31 | What Our Own Dads Modeled for Us05:31 – 07:19 | Perfectionism Is Increasing—And Parents Are Feeling It07:19 – 09:50 | Social Media Makes Dads Feel Like Failures09:50 – 11:36 | Every Dad Brings Something Different to the Table11:36 – 13:53 | How Dad Pressure Becomes Kid Pressure.13:53 – 15:31 | Your Kids Don’t Want Perfect—They Want Present15:31 – 17:20 | Why Perfectionism Makes Dads Defensive17:20 – 23:51 | The Emotional Cost of Perfectionism in Parenting23:51 – End | Consistency Beats Perfection Every TimeAPD Pro Move:Make a list of the times you’ve failed as a dad. Give yourself grace for those moments and stop putting so much pressure on yourself as a dad.All Pro Dad ResourcesEpisode 107 – What Do I Do When I’ve Messed Up As A Dad?13 Ps All Dads Must BeWe love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn
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