When you have children, your life can seem to turn upside down in the best possible way. Your body is not your own anymore, your private moments are no longer private and so many odd but wonderful things happen. Can you relate?
It can be exhausting, it can be stressful and then when your kids are being particularly difficult on any given day, or other things are piling up, it can feel like the end of the world. And yet, we wouldn’t change it for all the money in the world.
However, there are some realistic things that we can keep in mind to keep us feeling in control and optimistic.
Nine Times Out Of Ten It’s Not Personal
First, it is important to keep in mind that nine times out of ten, the tantrums, and even the hurtful words, are not personal. It might feel like it in that moment when they are having a tantrum about something that you have said or done, but remember, it’s not personal.
It’s usually just a reaction to the situation, not to you. If you remember that it’s not personal, it becomes a lot easier to deal with. You won’t feel like a failure of a parent, and may not get upset by whatever they say.
We Can’t Get It Right Every Time
We’re human, and as humans we are going to make mistakes. It is not possible to get it right every time, and not everyone is going to be able to see that.
The important thing is that you know this is the truth, and you learn from what went wrong so that next time it doesn’t happen. This is how humans work, and this is how life works, so we’ve just got to move on when things aren’t going quite the way that you want them to.
When things don’t go as planned, it’s important to sit down and talk to your children about the situation. Children need to see that we are not perfect, and that you can own up to things when you have made mistakes.
Just Do Your Best All Year Round
I think we can all agree that being a parent is a full-time job. We don’t get breaks very often, which means that we are on duty all year round, and the only thing that we can do is our best.
Of course on occasions like Christmas and birthdays things can get a little harder as we have to plan presents, parties and so on. So, when it comes to this, again communicate and be realistic and open.
Ask them what they want, ask them what kind of party they want. If they don’t know, come up with some affordable and manageable suggestions such as an affordable foam party, or an inflatable bounce house party like we did last year.
These are just a couple of ideas, but the main thing to keep in mind is to communicate with your children about having fun with realistic expectations.
Spending Time With Them Goes A Long Way
Speaking of communicating regarding special occasions, be sure that you are spending time with them during these special occasions.
Even though it can be hard to balance working and being with your children sometimes, it’s important to be intentional with spending time with your kids. Spending time with your children is one of the most precious things about being a parent, and you don’t want to miss out on it because of the little things.
It’s Not Always Sunshine And Rainbows
Lastly, no matter what we see on Facebook or Instagram, it is not always sunshine and rainbows for everyone. Remember, social media is often just a highlight reel of the best moments a person or family has. It’s typically not their daily lives, so don’t feel upset or envious.
We’re not seeing the tantrums, the screaming, and the crying.
Final Thoughts
Remember, these are our lives and we have to make the best and the most of it. So, keep these few tips in mind as you navigate your daily lives with your children.
