I think empathy is probably the most important trait a father can have. I think parents too often minimize their kids' emotions, and empathy goes a long way to helping a dad understand the frustrations of being a kid without comparing those frustrations to grown-up concerns. Compassion, reliability, mental and physical fitness, intellectual curiosity, and personal courage are all part of being a good dad.

As for being a great dad, I think it probably has to do with continuing to grow as a person and sharing new and diverse experiences with his kid(s). Being a role model is important, but I don't think that being a role model excludes letting your kid see you vulnerable or struggling every once in a while. Learning how to overcome adversity, or at least realizing that it's normal, is important. I think maintaining some sort of legacy for your kid is important, too. For me, it's taking my kids camping at the place where my dad took me camping.

It's a tough question. Maybe in the end, it's as simple as striving to be a great man who always includes his kids in his pursuits.