Welcome to the Daily Dad podcast where we provide one lesson every single day to help you with your most important job, being a parent.

I'm Ryan Holiday, and I draw these lessons from ancient philosophy, modern psychology, practical wisdom, and insights

from parents just like you all over the world. Thank you for listening, and we hope this helps.

It's the worst lie. I do it all for them, we say. We tell ourselves that's why we're getting on the plane. That's why we're spending another long night at the office, why we're taking that big risk, why we're starting that next venture. It's for them. We're doing it all for our family. Those people we rarely see. It's a good motivation to be sure, and it's also a very flattering one. It's

ironically a rather self-serving one, too, because by dressing up our actions in selflessness,

we don't end up thinking much about anyone but ourselves. Because if we really thought about it,

we'd have to ask, is this actually what my wife and son and daughter want more money? Is that really what

they wake up and feel like they're missing? Financial security? Or are they missing us? You say this is for

them, but in reality, they don't like what this has turned you into. They're always stressed,

you're always gone. You act like you're saving the world, but you're selling insurance. It doesn't

matter if you're a billionaire on your third

venture or struggling artist after their big break. What your family wants is you. Of course, they also want

you to be fulfilled. They want to be provided for. They want to see you strive and succeed. And the

world may well be better off if you do, but they also want you. In fact, of all the things they

want, that's the only one they truly need. You. So if you're, but they also want you. In fact, of all the things they want, that's the only one they

truly need. You. So if you're going to sacrifice and take risks and get on a plane, do it to come

home. Do everything to be there for them. Not later, not after, but now.

Hey, you're listening to the Daily Dad podcast, one meditation a day inspired to help you do your most important job,

which is be a great father. These are meditations inspired by ancient wisdom, psychological research, and just great strategies from normal dads just like you. Thanks for listening.