Ryan Reynolds on Fatherhood and The Importance of Embracing Failure

Hollywood A-lister Ryan Reynolds recently shed light on his parenting philosophy, emphasizing the importance of teaching his children valuable lessons about dealing with setbacks. In an interview with Hugh Jackman, Reynolds revealed how a piece of advice from director Shawn Levy (‘Deadpool & Wolverine’) has shaped his approach to raising his four children with his wife Blake Lively.

Levy’s wisdom revolved around the concept of openly discussing not just victories but also failures. Reynolds explained how he wants his kids to understand that things don’t always go according to plan, and that’s perfectly acceptable. By being transparent about his own experiences, he aims to instil the idea that “getting it right” isn’t the only option.

Also Read: Watch Zach Bryan’s Live Debut of New Songs ’28’ And ‘Pink Skies’

This philosophy extends beyond mere acceptance; Reynolds encourages his children to view challenges and defeats as significant learning opportunities, just as valuable as triumphs. This approach forms a cornerstone of his parenting style.

The conversation delved deeper as Reynolds discussed how fatherhood has impacted his anxiety disorder. He acknowledged the initial difficulties but ultimately found that the responsibility of raising children shifted his focus away from social anxieties. This newfound purpose allowed him to manage his anxieties more effectively.

The interview took a heartwarming turn when Reynolds spoke about the role of love in managing his children’s anxieties. He highlighted the hereditary nature of anxiety and how his experiences allowed him to connect with his children on a deeper level. Instead of downplaying their anxieties, he chooses to envelop them with love and understanding, a strategy born from his own journey.

Reflecting on his experiences, Reynolds expressed gratitude for his anxiety disorder. He believes it equipped him with a unique empathy, allowing him to provide emotional support to his children when needed.

The conversation then shifted to Hugh Jackman’s experiences as a father. Jackman, known for his roles in films like ‘X-Men,’ admitted to initially adopting a more traditional approach, shielding his children from his stresses. He would distance himself during tense periods, like preparing to host the Oscars, believing it protected them.

However, a piece of advice prompted him to change course. He realized his aloofness might lead his children to misinterpret his behaviour, potentially believing they had done something wrong. This led Jackman to embrace openness and include his children in his world, even when faced with challenges.

By sharing their parenting journeys, both Reynolds and Jackman offer valuable insights. Reynolds’ emphasis on embracing failure fosters resilience in his children, while Jackman’s exploration of openness highlights the importance of emotional connection.

Ultimately, their conversation serves as a reminder that effective parenting involves not just love and support, but also fostering emotional intelligence and resilience in our children.

-Gayathri J