Duke of Sussex reflects on fatherhood, personal growth, and lessons from his own childhood
Prince Harry has opened up about the personal changes he felt he needed to make before becoming a father, saying he wanted to become the “best version” of himself for his children.
Speaking at the Whitten Oval, home of the Western Bulldogs AFL club, the Duke of Sussex reflected on how fatherhood pushed him to confront parts of his past and prepare himself for a new chapter in life with Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry explained that parenting is something that continues to evolve over time, especially as the world changes. He suggested that each new generation grows with different challenges and opportunities, which means parents also need to grow alongside their children.
“Our kids are our upgrade,” he said while discussing modern parenting. Harry clarified that he did not mean he had “upgraded” his own father, but rather that children growing up today need parents who are constantly improving themselves.
The Duke of Sussex also spoke about the role therapy played in his journey toward becoming a better parent. He said working through unresolved issues from his past helped him prepare emotionally for fatherhood.
From his perspective, becoming a father is one of the most transformative roles a man can take on. It provides purpose but also comes with challenges, especially in the early days after a child is born.
Prince Harry recalled how sensitive newborns can be to their parents’ emotions. He said that when he felt stressed, Archie seemed to pick up on it immediately, sometimes even before he realised it himself.
The experience taught him an important lesson about emotional awareness and responsibility. According to Harry, parents need to look after their own wellbeing so they can properly support their children.
He added that the goal is to keep improving and never reach a point where you feel unable to help the people who depend on you most.
