Ryan Reynolds, beloved actor and dad of four, shares some heartfelt advice about parenting that might resonate with many of us who are navigating the joys and challenges of raising kids.
In a recent conversation, Reynolds revealed a piece of advice that has shaped the way he communicates with his kids. It was given to him by Shawn Levy, a close friend and collaborator. Levy suggested that it’s common for people to only talk about their successes, but it’s equally important for children to learn about the times when things don’t go as planned.
“Shawn told me something that stuck with me forever, that people tend to only talk about their wins. But I think it’s really important for your kids to know that you lose,” Reynolds shared.
He continued, “You don’t get what you want all the time. Something you worked on really hard didn’t work. You feel like you said something embarrassing today, you did something that didn’t sit right with you. It’s just so important that [your kids] see that and they don’t just hear, ‘Oh Dad nailed it.’ Because you lose so much more than you win.”
Reynolds emphasized the importance of showing vulnerability and honesty to his children. This openness helps them understand that everyone has their ups and downs, and it’s a natural part of life.
On another note, Reynolds also discussed how his experiences with anxiety have made him a more understanding and empathetic father.
In a chat with Hugh Jackman, Reynolds opened up about his struggles with anxiety and how it influences his parenting style. Jackman, who has also faced similar challenges, praised Reynolds for his openness.
“Oh mate, you’ve been pretty open with your anxiety struggles, which I really applaud you for,” Jackman said. “Do you find being a dad makes it better or worse?”
Reynolds responded thoughtfully, “I think it makes it better because your focus is less on yourself and more on your kids. I know you know that too.”
He added, “Now I love that I have anxiety, I love that I’ve had anxiety. Because when I see my kids experiencing some of that, which is probably genetic, I know how to address it in a way that is compassionate, that actually allows them to feel seen. I know that I can’t just fix it. And I can communicate all that stuff to them and with them. I’m always grateful for it.”
Jackman, who is also a father, reflected on how his parenting style has evolved over the years. He used to believe in shielding his children from his own struggles, but later realized that transparency is key.
“I thought, ‘Don’t burden them if you are anxious.’ Say you’ve got an opening night, or you’re hosting the Oscars—for three weeks before, I go a little distant,” Jackman recalled.
But through advice from others, Jackman learned the value of being open about his feelings. “I had to make an uncomfortable phone call yesterday, and I actually just said to my son, ‘I’ve got to make this uncomfortable phone call. I’m a bit nervous about it. If I seem a bit off, that’s why.’ And he goes, ‘Oh.’”
Jackman noticed a positive change when his son later asked how the call went, indicating that his son felt more included and connected.
Reynolds agreed with this approach, emphasizing that it helps children feel like they are a part of their parent’s world and fosters deeper understanding and empathy.
