The sacrifices we make do not go unnoticed, especially the image of women playing hard at the dual role of family head and breadwinner. Not enough attention is given to the men in my estimation, which is why I took the time to interview a few hard-working guys who opened up about how it was actually harder to bring home the bacon but not for the reasons you might think.
Tim: "I felt guilty working so much. I get up at 4am, travel most of the year and when I am in town, I still have to entertain clients. I would look over at other tables and feel extremely envious because I saw what looked like parents and kids out eating and stuff, you know, all together. That really hurt."
Mike: "I lost track of what time of day it was because whether I am going or coming from work, my wife and kids are asleep. I am missing all of the important things, what in the world am I doing?"
Jack: "I was there for every birth but can't remember when my sons took their first step. I missed out on the first day of school for two of my kids and I feel regret about it all the time."
Monte: My wife understands that I have to be away and the money is great, much more than I ever thought I could make. With jobs being somewhat scarce, I don't feel comfortable walking away without a safety net. I have worked too hard to get where I am and I am not about to quit now. My fear is two-fold though. I think at some point my wife will lose interest or we will grow apart. We don't even talk about having kids, when would that happen?
These CEO's not only found the time but continue making strides, improving the mindset of what fathers can do to lead family happiness and keep it going. See what business leaders, Rob Fujioka of FUHU, INTUIT CEO Brad Smith and others had to say: http://time.com/3342431/work-life-balance-fatherhood-ceos/.
You have our support and respect dads-hang in there!
Until next time~