“I wish I was more like her,” you say to the computer screen. “She’s such a fun mom.”
Then, turning to your kids you announce, “Let’s do a craft project!”
An hour later, one child is in tears, two are arguing over a tube of glitter glue, and you are about to scream. So much for being a fun mom.
Comparison and unrealistic expectations often lead to frustration. You throw up your hands in defeat, believing that you’ll never be the mom you want to be, so why even try.
Maybe it’s time to redefine your parenting.
To look at it with fresh eyes. To get very clear about who you are and who you want to be for your kids.
It’s not about who your friends are to their kids, or who your parents think you should be for your kids, it’s about you. To take the time to find the things that are important to you and the things that make you…you!
Here are some posts to get you started!
If you’re looking for clarity…
Creating a vision for your parenting is a great place to start. When you are intentional about your parenting you know which things are important and which things you can skip.
If you’re overwhelmed or stressed…
Redirect your thoughts from the negative to the positive using mantras. Find examples of helpful, positive phrases to keep you on track when things get crazy!
If you’re critical of yourself…
Learn to focus on the things that make you special, unique and the parent your kids love. Sure, there are growth areas, but don’t let that overshadow the positive!
If you’re ready to set new goals…
These steps will help you think through your expectations and set goals you can actually achieve – without adding a ton of stress to your life!
These steps take time. You may feel like rushing through or skipping these suggestions altogether. It makes sense. You’re probably used to expecting immediate results without a bunch of thinking. And, you’re a parent, so time to have a coherent string of thoughts is rare.
But, the benefits of redefining your parenting are enormous. You won’t spend your time envying other parents because you will be happy with who you are as a parent.
Plus, you won’t have to use glitter. Unless you want to.
Learn more about Parent Coaching!
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