FATHERHOOD REBRANDED – NAMING YOUR PARENTAL PURPOSE

In today’s world, being a father is more than just a biological role. It’s a calling, a responsibility, and an opportunity to shape the future. But let’s face it, many of us stumble into fatherhood without a clear idea of who we want to be as dads.

As Theodore Roosevelt once said;

“There is no form of happiness on the Earth, no form of success of any kind, that in any way approaches the happiness of the husband and the wife who are married lovers, and the father and mother of plenty of healthy children.”

But happiness doesn’t just happen. It’s built, day by day, decision by decision.

Now, while it might seem strange at first to create a new name for yourself, this is where naming your parental purpose comes in. It’s not about creating some idealized version of fatherhood that’s impossible to live up to. It’s about defining who you want to be as a father, giving yourself a north star to guide your actions and decisions.

Think of it as your personal brand of fatherhood. Are you “The Steadfast Guardian,” always there to protect and support? Or maybe “The Wise Mentor,” focused on imparting knowledge and wisdom? Perhaps you’re “The Adventure Guide,” ready to explore the world alongside your kids.

Whatever it is, this name becomes your mission statement, your reminder of the father you’re committed to being. It’s not about perfection – we all know that’s a pipe dream in parenting. It’s about intention and direction.

Roosevelt set a high bar, leading his son to say,

“My father, Theodore Roosevelt, was the best man I ever knew. He combined strength and courage with gentleness, tenderness, and great unselfishness.”

That’s a hell of a legacy to leave behind.

But here’s the kicker – you don’t have to be Theodore Roosevelt Sr. to be a great father. You just need to be intentional about who you want to be and consistently work towards that vision.

Creating your fatherhood brand isn’t about putting on a show or pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about identifying your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and committing to growth. It’s about being the kind of father your kids need, not just the one society expects you to be.

Are you ready to rebrand your fatherhood? To give a name to the father you want to become? It’s time to step up, define your purpose, and become the father your children will remember as the best man they ever knew. The journey starts now. What will your fatherhood brand be?

Creating Your Personal Identity: The Power of a Chosen Name

Naming yourself isn’t just about words on a page. It’s about creating a blueprint for the man you want to become.

Take my own personal journey of crafting Járn Ulfstaður as an example. This name, born from a blend of Norse mythology and my Irish ancestry, embodies the traits I aspire to as a father. It incorporates the traits of iron, representing strength and resilienc. Ulfstaður combines “Ulf” (wolf) and “staður” (steadfast), signifying a fierce and unwavering character.

As Járn Ulfstaður, I’ve defined key attributes for myself:

• Lleader with strategic thinking
• Unyielding in the face of challenges
• Innovative and adaptable
• A man of integrity and ethical standards
• Fiercely loyal to friends and family
• Protective of loved ones
• Honest and dependable
• A steadfast foundation for my family
• Keeper of traditions and family heritage

By creating a name that embodies your aspirations, you’re setting a powerful foundation for personal growth. Psychologists have long understood the profound connection between names and identity. Research shows that our names can significantly influence how we see ourselves and how we develop over time

This process of naming yourself isn’t just a creative exercise; it’s a commitment to personal transformation. It’s about creating a blueprint for the man you want to become. By choosing a name that resonates with your values and goals, you’re giving yourself a constant reminder of the father you aspire to be.

By crafting a name that embodies your ideal self, you’re setting the stage for a distinctive journey in fatherhood and life.

So, take the time to explore your cultural background, identify the traits you want to embody, and combine meaningful elements that represent your aspirations. Your chosen name can become a powerful tool in shaping your identity and guiding your path as a father.

The process is simple but powerful:

• Explore your cultural background
• Identify the traits you want to embody
• Combine meaningful elements that represent your aspirations

Just like wearing the IRON FATHER brand serves as a daily reminder of your commitment to fatherhood, your chosen name becomes a personal mantra. It’s a constant whisper reminding you of the man you’re striving to become – steadfast, loyal, and unbreakable.

Roosevelt also once said;

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.”

Your name is the first step in believing in the father you want to be.

Creating Your Own Paternal Identity

Now that you’ve seen how I crafted Járn Ulfstaður, it’s time for you to embark on your own journey of self-definition. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find a name that encapsulates the father you aspire to be:

Explore Your Roots
Dive into your family history and cultural background. Whether it’s Norse mythology, Celtic lore, or your own family’s naming traditions, find elements that resonate with you.

Define Your Core Values
List the qualities you want to embody as a father. Are you striving to be a protector, a mentor, or a source of wisdom? Your name should reflect these aspirations.

Consider Symbolism
Look for symbols or animals that represent your desired traits. Wolves, lions, or even trees can be powerful metaphors for different aspects of fatherhood.

Combine Elements
Mix and match elements from your cultural exploration and chosen symbols. Don’t be afraid to blend languages or concepts to create something unique.

Test the Sound
Say your potential name out loud. Does it feel powerful? Does it roll off the tongue? A name you’re comfortable pronouncing will be one you’re more likely to embrace.

Research Meanings
Ensure each part of your chosen name has significance. Like Járn Ulfstaður signifying “steadfast wolf,” your name should carry depth.

Seek Feedback
Share your ideas with trusted friends or family. Test it out with your kids and explain the meaning behind it -see what they think. Sometimes, others can provide insights into how well a name suits you.

Remember, this process isn’t about creating a pseudonym or an alter ego. You do not need to run out and change the name on your driver’s license and bank account. It’s about defining a version of yourself that embodies your highest aspirations as a father. Your chosen name becomes a personal mantra, a daily reminder of the man you’re striving to become.

As you craft your paternal identity, keep in mind that this name is for you. It doesn’t replace your legal name or become what others call you. Instead, it serves as a powerful tool for self-reflection and growth.

By undertaking this process, you’re not just picking a name – you’re setting an intention for your journey as a father. It’s a commitment to personal growth and a declaration of the legacy you want to leave for your children.

So, what will your name be? What father will you become? The power to define yourself is in your hands. Take it, shape it, and let it guide you on your path to becoming the father you’ve always aspired to be.