Introduction

As a 52-year-old Australian male residing in the picturesque landscapes of the Hawkesbury in North Western Sydney, life has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. I find myself at a crossroads as a business owner, active community member, and passionate advocate for mateship, family, and hard work. Once little bundles of joy, my children are now stepping into the realm of independence, and the fears of losing touch with them loom large. In this blog post, I’ll share my journey, grappling with parenting challenges in the face of my children starting to drive, work, and the onset of early adulthood.

The Backdrop of My Life

Born and bred in the heart of Western Sydney, my roots run deep in this close-knit community we live in. Surrounded by lifelong friends and a small army of new ones, I have many reasons to live a life of grace. A successful business owner, I’ve always believed in the power of a strong work ethic, something I’ve strived to instil in my children. My commitment to the community extends beyond the boardroom; I serve as a proud member of the Rural Fire Service and, more recently, as a Board Member of the Sydney Hills Business Chamber. Life, however, is not without its complexities.

Divorce and Blended Families

Navigating the tumultuous waters of divorce was a challenge that tested my resilience. Yet, amidst the storm, I found solace in the arms of a loving partner with whom I’ve shared the last 14 years. Together, we’ve formed a blended family – her daughter, aged 15, and my two children, aged 17 and 19. This dynamic, though rewarding, adds a layer of complexity to my role as a father.

The Value of Mateship

Mateship is an integral part of my identity. The bonds forged over years of shared experiences and camaraderie are invaluable. As my children transition into adulthood, I grapple with the fear that these connections may diminish. How do I ensure that my offspring understand the essence of mateship while finding their own path?

The Tug-of-War: Work and Family

Owning a business demands time and commitment. Striking the right balance between work and family has been a perpetual struggle. As my children grow, I ponder whether I’ve dedicated enough time to nurture their growth. The fear of losing touch intensifies with the awareness that time is a fleeting commodity. I have never heard anyone say, “I spend too much time with my kids”!

The Drift as They Drive

The moment my children earned their driving licenses marked a significant milestone in their journey to independence. While proud of their achievements, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of fear. The open road, symbolizing freedom for them, represents the potential for distance between us plus the mortality of just how dangerous our roads are for young people. How do I reconcile the need for autonomy with the fear of losing connection and wanting to keep them safe?

The Dilemma of Work and Early Adulthood

As my children enter the workforce, the transition into early adulthood comes with challenges. Their pursuit of individual dreams may lead them down paths unknown to me. How do I balance being a guiding force with allowing them the space to explore and make their own decisions? I certainly don’t want to be one of those parents who lives their lives through their children.  I want them to realise their own dreams, not mine!

Struggling with Emotional Highs and Lows

Parenthood is an emotional rollercoaster; for me, it still rings its bell several times a week. Reconciling failure, success, regret, and love can leave me feeling like I am not living my best life; like I am not living to my fullest potential!  The highs of pride and joy are often juxtaposed with the lows of self-doubt and uncertainty. Struggling to decipher if I am doing a good job as a father and partner, I grapple with the fear that my emotional struggles may impact my ability to connect with my children.

The Juggling Act: Blended Families and Sibling Dynamics

Blended families present a unique set of challenges. Navigating the delicate balance of sibling dynamics and fostering a sense of unity requires conscious effort. As my children forge their paths, maintaining a connection between them becomes paramount. How do I ensure they remain a support system for each other despite the differences in age and interests?

Finding Time for Self-Care

Dedicating time to self-care often takes a backseat in the whirlwind of responsibilities. Reading, exercise, and quality family time are essential components of a balanced life, yet they often slip through the cracks. As I grapple with the fear that time is slipping away, finding moments for self-nurturing becomes a priority.  Learning to say no is a struggle..

Conclusion: Embracing Change and Staying Connected

The fears of losing touch with my children are real but also a testament to my love and commitment as a father. As I navigate the uncharted territories of parenting in the face of them reaching early adulthood, I am reminded that change is inevitable. Embracing the evolution of our relationships, fostering open communication, and adapting to the shifting dynamics are crucial to staying connected.

In the quest to provide the best opportunities for my children to grow and live their best lives, I acknowledge the importance of introspection and self-improvement. Time may be running out, but the quality of moments spent together truly matters. As I continue to serve my community, run my business, and nurture my relationships, I am determined to confront the fears head-on and build lasting connections with my children as they embark on their unique journeys into adulthood.

Jason Owen – January 2024 #eyesforward

Pitt Town 2756, Australia