This note is from the present day to myself the day before I became a father, which was December 9th, 2015:

Stop worrying so much, Chris. I know that the responsibilities and burdens of becoming a father are leaving you anxious and nervous, however, you really have nothing to worry about. First of all, you’re married to the most caring, thoughtful, and selfless woman on the planet who’s had your back since day the day you met. She’ll help you along the way, even when you feel completely hopeless, and remind you that you’re capable of achieving anything in this world. Emily will teach you all you need to know to be a great dad and more. She’ll teach you how to console, feed, and burp Colin, how to secure him in his car seat, how to change diapers, in addition to all of the other needs that babies require. She’s your rock and the woman that will stick with you no matter what. You can accomplish anything with her by your side. Secondly, you have a strong support system that will help you at the drop of a hat and pack you full of useful knowledge. You’ll be in a great deal of debt towards your parents, in addition to your in-laws, for all the of their assistance, love, and support they’ll give you.

Also, you’re forgetting how resilient of a person you’ve grown to be over the years – You’re the type of person who hates mediocrity, who wants to succeed in every facet of their life no matter what, and you have the drive and passion to do anything you set your mind to. You’ve never quit in anything that you’ve done and you never will. So what that you’ve never changed a diaper, tried to console a cranky baby, or been faced with the responsibilities that babies render upon you? You’ll learn everything you need to know about this and more and become a pro at it in no time. Just remember this – Nothing happens over night and your patience will be tested extensively and regularly over the next few months. Take big deep breaths, never lose your cool, and you’ll be perfectly fine. I promise you that.

Although this experience will completely overhaul your life and schedule, that doesn’t mean you can’t find time to still enjoy time to yourself and with Emily. Although time spent with Emily, with your friends, and in your beloved man cave is less frequent now, you enjoy it more than you ever imagined. You soak in the time to be able to recharge your batteries and get some down time. It’s special in a way you never thought possible.

You want to know what else is amazing, my friend? Your outlook on life will change. You won’t spend as much time worrying about the past or future and, quite honestly, why should you? You’ll have a beautiful and healthy baby boy, a gorgeous and loving wife, and a home to create memories for the rest of your life. You’ll look into the eyes of Colin and wonder how you ever lived without his adorable grin and contagious laugh.

You got this parenting thing down, man. Never question what you’re capable of. Now stop worrying, go help Emily, and let’s rock this dad thing.

Sincerely,

Your future self