If you have a teenager, or a handful of teenagers, you'll know that teenagers aren't very often pleased to see us. If your self worth was in any way linked to being a good parent and having happy smiling children then watch your self worth drain away as they hit their teens. Lots of things irritate and annoy teenagers and parents are usually very high on the list.
A dog can help. They're always pleased to see us - even if we just left the room for 12 seconds to put the bin out. They're affectionate. They're loyal. And they're fun. They're good for mental health. And they need regular walks which is good exercise for us.
Get a dog. Really, get a dog. If you have the space, and you can afford it get lots of dogs.