Embracing Simplicity: Lessons from Life with a Newborn
Here’s a couple lessons I’ve picked up the last month or two while getting used to living with Ollie and Finn causing chaos in our house.
Embracing Simplicity: Lessons from Life with a Newborn
With our firstborn just over two years old and our newborn about a month old, life has become a whirlwind of activity. Amidst the sleepless nights—averaging five hours—and the constant demands of parenting, one lesson stands out: the importance of simplicity.
The Power of Preparation
I am grateful that I have practiced a few simple strategies that have prepared us for this period. Being consistent with meal preps has been a lifesaver. Dishes like baked chicken, rice, bagged salads (shout out Costco), and protein smoothies have sustained our family. We've also embraced the convenience of takeout and freezer meals when needed, understanding that this isn't the season for fancy-pants cooking.
Maintaining Fitness Amidst Chaos
Keeping a routine and continuing to exercise is still a priority. Having a gym in the garage and at the clinic makes it easier to get in a 15-30 minute workout. This is about half the length of what I’d prefer, but it’s much better than nothing.
Dr. Josh helping a patient with a stiff hip.
For those without home equipment, finding a conveniently located gym—be it a condo facility, one near the office, or along the commute—can make all the difference. Cutting down that travel/prep time makes a short workout feel much more doable. Alternatively, investing in a light and heavy kettlebell and learning how to use them provides options for days when leaving the house is challenging.
Streamlining Business Operations
Running a business with a newborn has been a new experience this time around. When our first son Ollie was born, I was working in someone else’s business and they made it beyond easy for me to do well.
By keeping our clinic's operations simple—with low overhead and streamlined processes—I do my best to ensure that patients receive excellent care without unnecessary complications. This approach reduces administrative burdens, allowing me to focus on delivering quality care, even with limited energy.
SO there it is. Simple meal preparation, fitness routines, and business operations. These things make it a bit easier to be a good dad, provide awesome chiropractic care to my patients, and still take care of my own health.
To be honest, I wouldn’t change a thing (I mean I guess it would be pretty cool if our two-year old stopped bringing home a new cold every month), and I have found this period to be so rewarding. Huge thanks to all my family, patients, and community that have supported my wife and I as we raise two little boys to be helpful and kind to those around them.
