The Tired Dad. - by Jon Gustin (Hardcover)

About the Book

"100 doses of wisdom for all the tired dads out there. You aren't alone in pursuing what matters most: showing up for your family. If you're a tired dad, that likely means that you're a good dad. It means you're tired from parenting, not of parenting. Jon Gustin, a writer, content creator, and dad of two, has been tired since his first child was born. He grew up hearing messages that emphasized career pursuits, stoic masculinity, and that being a financial provider is the sole purpose of fatherhood. But Gustin, like many modern fathers, is pushing back on that narrative. Gustin's simple message in The Tired Dad is "keep showing up." To be cherished in your children's memories tomorrow, be present today. And dads, you don't have to do it alone. Whether you're a sleep-deprived new dad, a dad working to raise emotionally resilient kids, or a dad of teens trying to figure out how to connect with your kids as they grow more independent, there's something here that will resonate, challenge, and inspire you, no matter the age, stage, or season. The Tired Dad reminds you that the monumental effort you're spending to love, care for, and connect with your kids is not wasted (even if it sometimes feels that way). In these 100 reflections short enough to gulp down with your morning coffee, you'll find a shot of inspiration that fits into your busy schedule, thought-provoking enough to stick with you throughout the day, and lasting enough to make a difference in your kids' lives. You're doing a good job, Dad. Keep showing up. It matters"-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

100 doses of wisdom for all the tired dads out there. You aren't alone in pursuing what matters most: showing up for your family.

"This book isn't about having it all figured out--it's about showing up, even when you're running on fumes. Because in the chaos, there's meaning."--Raashaun Casey, aka DJ Envy, co-host of The Breakfast Club

If you're a tired dad, that means that you're a good dad. Parenting is some of the hardest work you'll do. Jon Gustin, a writer, content creator, and dad of two, knows that's true, yet knows it's also true that the energy parents pour into loving, caring for, and connecting with their kids is never wasted, even when it feels like it might be.

In one hundred brief reflections, Gustin encourages dads (and, really, all parents) to keep showing up. To be cherished in your children's memories tomorrow, be present today. This isn't a parenting manual; it's a companion for the trenches, cheering you on and encouraging you to continue growing. Short enough to read with your morning coffee and deep enough to stay with you all day, whatever the age, stage, or season, The Tired Dad is a reminder that your presence matters more than you know.

You're doing a good job, Dad. Keep showing up. It matters.

Review Quotes

"Jon Gustin reminds us that the greatest power a parent has comes from the traits you've challenged and developed in yourself."--Josh Brolin, actor and author of From Under the Truck

"This book isn't about having it all figured out--it's about showing up, even when you're running on fumes. Because in the chaos, there's meaning."--Raashaun Casey, aka DJ Envy, co-host of The Breakfast Club

"Every reflection in The Tired Dad. is a reminder that fatherhood is worth every sleepless night."--Jim Gaffigan, comedian and author of Dad Is Fat

"The Tired Dad. is a reminder that you're not alone in this tiring yet beautiful journey. Sometimes it can be challenging, but it's worth every second. This book is a North Star to any dad striving to become the best version of himself."--Shay Mooney, singer-songwriter of Dan + Shay

"You will find yourself--your struggles, your triumphs, your doubts, your fears, and your joys--in the pages of these reflections. Oftentimes, for us, the most important thing we need to hear is that we are not alone."--Jon Fogel, creator of the Whole Parent Academy and author of Punishment-Free Parenting

"In a world that can make dads feel like they need to carry the weight of the world alone, The Tired Dad. is a refreshing antidote. Every modern dad needs this book on their nightstand, in their conversations with one another, and in their hearts as they walk through the beautiful and exhausting role of fatherhood. Gustin is not just helping dads feel seen. He is redefining what modern fatherhood looks like, and we are all better for it."--Libby Ward, author of Honest Motherhood

"Gustin's message both tugs at my heartstrings and helps me put into perspective who I want to be as a father. For any father who is actively dealing with the addictions and distractions of life in the twenty-first century, this book centers what is actually important and gives us courage to take steps to be a dad who uses 'tired' as a badge of honor."--Zachary Watson, coach, content creator, educator

"Gustin understands what most parenting advice misses: that you can be doing everything you're supposed to do and still feel like you're barely surviving. The Tired Dad. meets parents in that reality without trying to fix it or add one more thing to the list. In my work helping parents understand their nervous systems and regulate past burnout, I see this every day. Gustin sees this, too, and his reflections offer something more valuable than solutions. They offer validation."--Dr. Brooke Weinstein, nervous system regulation expert and founder and CEO of Thrive Like a Parent

"There are endless books marketed to parents but so few that speak directly to dads and the real, lived experience of fatherhood. The Tired Dad. does just that. It's honest, tender, and deeply human. Gustin doesn't tell you how to fix or perform fatherhood; he invites you to show up fully in it. This book is the conversation that so many dads have been missing."--Alyssa Blask Campbell, MEd, New York Times bestselling author, researcher, and emotional development expert

About the Author

Jon Gustin is the founder and owner of The Tired Dad LLC. As a content creator and influencer who goes by the moniker "The Tired Dad" online, Jon has amassed over two million followers for his portrayal of life as an ordinary father and the lessons he's learned. His videos and writing showcase both the heartwarming and heartbreaking aspects of being a dad. Jon is also the host (along with his wife) of The Tired Dad & Tired Mom Podcast. He and his wife live in Tennessee with their son and daughter.