Cool dads: 7 dads reveal how fatherhood forever changed them
Seven dads speak candidly about the joys and tests of fatherhood, revealing how their children have given them an entirely new perspective on life.
Fatherhood When you're single you live for yourself. As a father I now do everything with my wife and children first and foremost in my mind.
Challenges Patience is key with young children. But since it's a rare quality in busy professionals such as myself, I had to abandon old attitudes and adopt a different approach.
Proudest moment When the children attempt something challenging such as acting in a school play, playing the piano in front of an audience, or when Skylar competes in the Bintan kids' triathlon. Their sense of achievement makes me feel immensely proud.
Fatherhood Since adopting Simorrah I've become more patient. She also brings out the kid in me when we play together.
Challenges Quality time is a challenge, but I've converted one of Visage's facial rooms into a playroom. Simorrah can then spend her after-school hours with me at work, which allows me to spend time with her in between appointments.
Proudest moment My daughter once told me I'm very special because I cut and style her hair and make her look beautiful every day.
Fatherhood Being a dad stopped me procrastinating. I now realise how precious and beautiful life is.
Challenges My wife and I take it in turns to regain control of a situation. Sometimes having a different parent in charge of a particular situation changes the dynamics and the end result in your child's behaviour.
Proudest moment Whenever either one of my children holds my hand, stares into my eyes and tells me how much they love me.
Fatherhood Becoming a dad means I now have more grey hairs!
Challenges I treat my children with respect, dignity, patience and "kiddie gloves". Despite my busy schedule I ensure I make time for them. It also helps to have a great boss - my wife.
Proudest moment Every day is a proud moment for me. But during a trip to Prague, I clearly remember my kids comforting me when we reached the top of the Petrin Tower. They know how afraid I am of heights!
Fatherhood My boys have moulded me into a more patient, understanding and forgiving person. Parenthood is very humbling.
Challenges It's not easy being an active father while managing a business, but it's very rewarding. It's all about establishing your priorities. I was 40 when I became a father for the first time, so my number one priority right now is to spend as much time as possible with my family.
Proudest moment Being present at my children's births, seeing them walk for the first time and sharing their excitement when we play and learn together, are just some of several proud moments.
Fatherhood My children have made my life more meaningful. Also, watching them grow has given me greater respect for the future. I've realised my actions today will affect my kids - and their kids - in the long run.
Challenges I'm fortunate to be fairly well-established in my industry and hold a job that's not overly-demanding. So I'm able to play an active role in my children's life and attend most of their school functions and social events. When facing a parental challenge I see it as an opportunity for personal growth and learning.
Proudest moment I never tire showing off my beautiful children!
Dr Jon Ryder, D.D.S. smilefocus Dad to Scott (25), Jeffrey (21) & Olivia (1)
Fatherhood When your child is born you're hit by an overwhelming combination of a new kind of love, a heightened sense of responsibility - and fear! You experience these same 
Challenges I've learnt how to say no to some things and yes to others. Most challenges can be met with patience. Kids have a sense of urgency and desperation for everything - big and small - so parents need to be in control and keep their cool.
Proudest moment I'm proud every time I look at my children. Both my boys are more than 20 years older than my daughter, so it's heart-warming to see them interact with her in a playful and loving way.
Posted on Jun 2011
