If you want to live long—and stay present for the people who matter most—you need to pay attention to the risk factors that lead to the number one cause of death among fathers: heart disease.

When it comes to our health, every father asks for help eventually. The real question is when. Some men seek help early—motivated by a desire to optimize their mental performance, strengthen relationships, and function at their best. Others delay until health problems become overwhelming, when suffering is intense or daily life is no longer manageable. Most fathers fall somewhere in between. Where we land on that spectrum matters.

It is important to have other dads in your life, men who can relate to your experiences, get you out of the house and show up if needed. It is particularly difficult to connect with other expectant or new fathers.

Your lifestyle can have a significant impact on your fertility and the health and wellness of your baby to be. There are dozens of things you can do before a positive test. From healthy habits to communication and planning, what you do now can shape fertility, pregnancy, and the kind of parent you become. Before you start trying, here are five thoughtful steps worth taking. This is just a draft blog to get a sense of how it will look.