A Fatherhood Journey: in the Mountains and at Home

In the middle of life’s daily demands, it can be easy to put ourselves last. Between work, fatherhood, and all the responsibilities we carry, making space for joy, rest, and connection can feel like a luxury. But earlier this month, I was reminded just how essential those things are—not just for me, but for the kind of father, friend, and leader I want to be.

I recently took a trip to Colorado and Oregon, and it was more than just a vacation—it was a realignment. I didn't realize it but I was beginning to feel some misalignment and that my business was becoming a checking the box exercise. So this trip came at the right time, although I was concerned about being out for a week.

The idea of taking a break was good but more importantly it was an opportunity to have some fun, spend time with family & friends, and get out into nature and focus on me for a minute.

For those of you that follow me, you may recall that I spend time helping fathers navigate fatherhood and it boils down to four pillars - faith, self-care, community and contribution. This trip was an opportunity to practice what I preach. So after some reflection, here were my take-aways from time on the road and in the woods:

Fun: All week long, I explored new trails, laughed until my sides hurt, and enjoyed the simple beauty of time spent outdoors. From mountain hikes to spontaneous detours, the adventure reminded me how good it feels to play and be present. Who knew that the idea of running out of gas, miles from a gas station and in a remote area, could be so fun! :-)

Self-Care: Stepping away from my business for a few days was the mental reset I didn’t realize I needed. Hiking through Colorado’s rugged terrain and Oregon’s lush landscapes gave me space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with myself. That fresh air wasn’t just good for my body—it was fuel for my soul. Hiking Tip - when hiking in early summer make sure to bring Deet not Off!

Community: This trip wasn’t solo. I had the joy of sharing it with two of my daughters, a great friend, and my cousin. Each conversation, shared meal, and trail we walked deepened our bond. It was a powerful reminder that fatherhood doesn’t mean walking this journey alone. We need our people.

Want to know the best part?! You don’t need to travel across the country to experience this kind of renewal. You can find moments of fun, self-care, and community right where you are.

Here’s how:

Everyday Fun: Small Moments of Joy

• Toss a football with your kids in the backyard.

• Try a new board game as a family.

• Make a “fun playlist” and have a 10-minute dance break in the living room.

• Say yes to play. It doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be shared.

Simple Self-Care: Recharge Without Leaving Town

• Start your morning with 5 minutes of deep breathing or quiet prayer.

• Walk around your neighborhood without your phone.

• Journal a few thoughts at the end of your day to clear your mind.

• Give yourself permission to rest—even Jesus took time away from the crowds to restore His spirit (Luke 5:16).

Local Community: Build Your Circle

• Reach out to another dad and schedule a walk or coffee.

• Start a simple weekly check-in with a group of friends—text or call.

• Volunteer with your kids at a local event and meet other families.

• Host a casual BBQ or game night—no agenda, just togetherness.

This is what our fatherhood community is all about. It’s a space where we embrace these moments—where faith, self-care, community, and contribution come together to support one another on the path toward work-life harmony.

If you're a dad craving more than just survival mode, come join us. Let’s grow together, laugh together, and remind each other of the joy in this journey.

www.fullpotentialcc.net

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