It can be an overwhelming time for new dads, but your happiness and well-being matter.

Becoming a new father opens up a whole new world in your life.

There really is nothing like it.

The author holding his baby

Every baby is different, but we’re all much more alike than we like to believe.

All babies need love, guidance, acceptance, patience, and protection.

Being a new dad isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.

The author with his wife and child

Based on my own experience, here are 13 things I think every new father needs to know.

1.Be your partner’s rock.

2.Pick one task, and stick to it.

Person in a hat resting on a rocky slope with boulders and desert vegetation in the background

3.Have a pamper party.

4.Buy a push present for your partner.

6.Keeping score is inevitable, but try not to bring it up.

Man changing a baby's clothes in a crib, indoors, next to a window

7.Learn how everything works.

8.give a shot to work out.

9.Read books and studies.

Group of people smiling outdoors with two boxes of Pampers in front, a dog on the right

10.Read your baby books.

11.It can be an overwhelming time for new dads, but your happiness and well-being matter.

Take time for yourself.

Man reclining with sleeping baby on his chest

12.Also, give momma some time to herself.

13.And lastly, don’t be scared to mess up.

Two adults smiling and walking with a baby in a stroller through a park with trees

Two individuals assembling furniture, holding instruction sheet, with another person in background

Person stretching their arm across their chest, facing body of water. Wearing casual attire with a watch

Man seated indoors, reading a book with a focused expression

Man reading a book to a child on his lap, with a chalkboard and tent in the background

Man in hoodie using computer and gaming equipment, focused on screen

Four women laugh together during a relaxed gathering, seated casually with snacks and drinks

The author playing basketball with his son