Former NFL star J.J. Watt, 34, opened up about the joys and challenges of fatherhood in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly. Watt, who welcomed his son Koa with his wife, Kealia Ohai Watt, in October 2022, shared his insights on the responsibilities and rewards that come with being a dad.
One of the first lessons J.J. Watt learned about parenthood was the amount of time and energy required. He admitted that he had underestimated this aspect before becoming a father. He recalled conversations with his brother, Derek Watt, who already had two children.
When J.J. would ask Derek to join him on trips, Derek’s response would revolve around the responsibilities of fatherhood. J.J. explained, “You can’t just get up and do whatever you want. You have a human being to take care of.” However, he also emphasized the incredible joy and positive energy that children bring into a parent’s life.
What did Watt learn?
Fatherhood, J.J. Watt noted, can be tiring and time-consuming but is also the happiest and most fulfilling experience. After welcoming Koa, he retired from the NFL following the 2022 season. His retirement was influenced by his desire to dedicate more time to being a father.
“I want to try and be the best father I can be, and I know that takes a lot of time, energy, and commitment,” he explained. “Football also takes a lot of time, energy, and commitment. And I had a great career. I’m very proud of it and had a lot of fun, but I’m looking forward to and enjoying being a dad.”
As J.J. Watt spends quality time with his 15-month-old son, he has noticed signs of Koa’s potential interest in sports, particularly football. We would like to mention the Watt family has a rich history in the NFL, with J.J.’s brothers, Derek and T.J. Watt, having played for the Los Angeles Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers, respectively.
Future with his son
J.J. shared his excitement about the possibility of Koa following in their footsteps. However, he emphasized that he would support whatever path his son chose. He spoke highly of the benefits of sports, highlighting life lessons such as teamwork, discipline, work ethic, and how to handle both victory and defeat.
In his retirement from professional football, J.J. Watt relishes the opportunity to be a devoted father and mentor to Koa, passing down the lessons he has learned both on and off the field. If you will be a new father, here is how to prepare for it.
Talk and Listen
The first thing you can do is talk to your wife. Ask her how she’s feeling, what she needs, and how you can support her during pregnancy. Be a good listener, too. Sometimes, just lending an ear can make all the difference.
Attend Prenatal Classes
Many places offer prenatal classes for expectant parents. Sign up for these classes together. They’ll teach you both about pregnancy, labor, and what to expect when the baby arrives. Plus, it’s a great way to bond as a couple.
Be Involved
Being a dad means being part of the pregnancy journey. Go to doctor’s appointments, ultrasound scans, and baby-related shopping trips with your wife. It’s an excellent way to show you care and share these special moments.
Educate Yourself
Read books, articles, and blogs about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. You’ll learn about the changes your wife’s body is going through and what to expect when the baby comes. Plus, it’s a way to feel more prepared.
Create a Support System
Reach out to friends and family who are already parents. They can offer advice, share their experiences, and provide valuable tips. Having a support network can make a world of difference.
Prepare the Nursery
Get the baby’s room ready. Paint the walls, assemble the crib, and make sure everything is safe and comfortable for your little one. Decorating the nursery can be a fun project for both of you.
Plan Finances
Babies come with expenses, so reviewing your finances and planning a budget are good ideas. This will help you feel more secure about providing for your growing family.
Enjoy the Journey
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy this special time. Take photos, write in a journal, and savor every moment because soon, you’ll be holding your little bundle of joy in your arms.
Summing Up
Becoming a dad is a beautiful adventure; being prepared can make it even more rewarding. Your love and support mean the world to your wife and your soon-to-arrive baby. So, take these steps, embrace the experience, and prepare for the incredible fatherhood journey!
Garima Bais, a content creator since 2015, delivers unmatched quality with a personal touch. She is an expert in niches like beauty, fashion, digital marketing, health, parenting, travel, and home improvement. An Extremely positive person, she wishes to extend a helping hand to people dealing with problems who have no one to share them with.
