Ok so my photo is similar to the Thomas Crown Affair and it's really not related much to being "the man" but I just found it interesting how this painting can be related wherein some men hide behind something limiting what they can do for the family instead of just getting out there and facing the world whatever challenge comes their way... and all I'm talking about is simple home improvement hehe :)
I know someone who owns a car but doesn't even know how to change a tire and he had to call someone to do it for him. Now if you had a wife and she got a flat, of course, you're the first person she'd ask help with so i think we all should try to get the basics down for anything.
What do we need to learn?
Well, before we try anything, it's best to have the tools to do it. What I did when I was living alone before I got married was to buy a tool whenever I was out to get groceries. Maybe a wrench now, then a flathead screwdriver in the next visit. Then maybe a plumbers wrench on the third and pliers on the fourth, etc etc. Then while you're doing this, you can save up for a nice toolbox to house all of them. After you have collected a significant number of tools you can use, then you can try things out.
Electronics: Well, at the very least, know how to change a bulb. Also know to do minor wirings. Try to replace faulty plugs and rewire it. It's good exercise. Very simple too :) If you're daring, google some electronic experiments but knowing you're busy as a dad to be or a dad, then just learn the basics and possibly google some DIY solutions to common household problems you can address. PLEASE don't be a superman by trying anything. If you feel you can't do it, then don't. Don't risk the safety of your household just because you think you can do that general home rewiring you imagine of doing.
Car Trouble: I should be telling myself this but at this point, I can say I can at least check if something's wrong and know what can possibly be the cause of something so I guess that's a start. Know basic car maintenance stuff like checking the oil, putting water in (please), knowing when your battery is about to die, and of course, changing the tires. Read your car manual as well to know what those blinking lights mean if they do show up one day.
Plumbing: Do you know what teflon is? Yes? Read on. I recently called for a plumber because we had to reroute our water lining from the tank and around the house but if your problem's only a leaking faucet, then you can be the one to fix it. You can do it definitely. Just make sure you close the main line when you do in order for you not to pay for all the water spillage done while you sort out the new faucet.
Carpentry: I haven't been doing this for a loooong time because there hasn't been a need for it but for small projects, I suggest you also try to learn to do it. I'm thankful for having a grandpa who was heavily into it so he taught me a little. It's been a while back though but I am confident that I can try to work on something if needed even if it won't turn out to be that great. The important thing is you understand how to hold a hammer, saw, etc. For a little project, try making your dog his house :)
Common Household Things: Locked out of the room and you lost the key and ended up pounding the helpless doorknob? At the very least, try to learn how to install a door knob and for sure you'll be more confident eventually in installing some lighting fixtures, switches, etc.
There are a lot of things you can do without asking or paying for help. At the end of any project, you will find yourself empowered, more knowledgable, and you'll be the superman of your household with you getting much needed pogi points with your wife... and of course, savings in your pocket :)
Cy
