Patrick Mitrovich

Instagram: @beastcakes23

Type of Dad: New Dads, Step-Dads

What's unique about your experience because of the Type of Dad you are?

Being a step-dad is becoming more common these days, but I think every situation is very different. I believe that stepparents are very special and have a chance to make a significant impact on the household that even some moms or dads don't have the opportunity to.

Please tell us what it's like to walk a mile in your shoes?

Our family life is crazy. With three kids from 3 to almost 13, we are always on the go. I tend to get very involved in whatever I am into, and most of my life is a constant battle with finding balance. On top of family life, I own my own business, which offers up its own set of challenges. I would sum it up by saying there are never enough hours in a day.

Who have you become since you became a father?

All 3 of my kids have made me a better person in their ways. I will say there are all different kinds of love that we have the capability of learning. You love your parents, siblings, and other family members, you have a love of a spouse, the love of friends, and the love of your kids. It is a special thing, and I believe it carries over with things like patience, attention, discipline, etc.

What are some of the unforgettable moments that you hold dear?

As parents, Betsy and I have always been big believers in making memories instead of still thinking about material things. I have a lot of memories already in my short tenure of being a father from trips we have taken or adventures around the home. Most of our most unforgettable memories come from when all 5 of us are together.

What are some of your challenges/wins as a Dad?

As a dad, we are challenged every day. A test of patience, being a parent vs. a friend and being a friend when we need to be. You have many hats to wear, especially as a step-dad.

I believe my biggest win as a dad is earning the respect of my step-kids. They are put in a situation they have never been in, and it can put a lot of pressure on them. I cannot precisely pinpoint a particular moment where I realized that it happened, but treating them with respect and being fair was very important.

What/who are your influences/influencers?

My dad is one of my biggest influencers. He gives me advice in my business life and my dad life. I can ask him just about anything, and he knows me better than anyone. The way he executes life is fun to watch, and when you are around his peers, you can see how well respected he is.

Our pastor Jason has become very influential in my life as well. Between his sermons, our lunches, and serving together in the community, there is so much to learn from him. He is a dad of 4 himself, and it is effortless to look up to him with the way he treats his family.

What were the three best decisions you've ever made as a Dad?

I'd say the single best decision I have made in my life was when I married Betsy and also decided to become a dad. It has been a great adventure, and I wouldn't trade if for the world.

How are you making an impact now with your family, community, life? Family always comes first. I have plenty of hobbies, but I do my best never to let them get in the way of family time. I hope to continue to show our kids that they always come first and being there most in their times of need. Unfortunately, you do not know when that will be. I am trying to make more of an effort to talk to our two older ones at least once a day, even if it is only for a couple of minutes one on one. I know them well enough to know if something is wrong or going on that Betsy and I need to know. I have a gift of paying excellent attention to detail, and it pays off in this area.

As a business owner and now through our church, I serve a lot, donate a lot, and try to be as active as possible. There are many projects I have been a part of throughout the last three years.

What's some of the best advice you've received as a man? Best advice you've given?

"Go the extra mile."

It can be simple things around your house, at work, but it's the small things that can make the most significant impact down the road.

The best advice I can give anyone that is a relationship or married is don't be lazy and always date your spouse even after you are married. There is still a time where you can say, "I'll do it later," and then it never gets done. I always try to do whatever I can to make my family's life more comfortable if it means we get to spend more quality time together.

How do you want to be remembered? What does legacy mean to you?

I want to be remembered as a "builder." Builder of people and the community. Not just encourage but lead by being in the muck alongside the very people you are trying to help. I want my wife, kids, employees, and friends to know that I am in it with them.

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