I’ve found myself in a position no mom wants to be in.
I don’t enjoy parenting.
I think I started my family too soon. I wasn’t ready emotionally or mentally for the toll it was going to take to be a mother, a significant other, and be successful in the workplace. Or it could be the ages my kids are right now: 15, 13, and 10. The oldest wants to journey the countryside and youngest wants my undivided attention. The middle will send me to an early grave. The house is a wreck and someone is always hungry. It feels never ending.
All in all, parenting is an incredible journey filled with moments of love, laughter, and learning. It’s also filled with feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or simply stuck in a rut; all accompanied by many tears. It’s important to remember that enjoying parenthood is possible. By making small changes and adopting a fresh perspective, you can rediscover the joy of parenting and create lasting memories with your children.
- Embrace Imperfection: One of the biggest sources of stress for parents is the pressure to be perfect. Let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace the beauty of imperfection. Understand that it’s okay to make mistakes and that your love and effort are what truly matter. Focus on being present with your children rather than striving for perfection.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Parenting is a demanding job, and it’s essential to prioritize self-care to maintain your well-being. Make time for activities that recharge your batteries, whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or enjoying a hobby. Remember that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for being the best parent you can be.
- Simplify Your Schedule: In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by a hectic schedule. Take a step back and evaluate your commitments. Simplify your schedule by prioritizing activities that bring you and your family joy and saying no to unnecessary obligations. By creating more space in your calendar, you’ll have more time to connect with your children and enjoy quality moments together.
- Focus on Connection: Amidst the chaos of daily life, it’s important to prioritize meaningful connections with your children. Set aside dedicated time each day to engage with them, whether it’s through conversation, play, or shared activities. Put away distractions such as phones and screens and fully immerse yourself in the moment. These small moments of connection can have a profound impact on your relationship with your children and bring joy to both of you.
- Embrace Playfulness: Children have a natural sense of playfulness, and tapping into that energy can reignite your own joy as a parent. Let go of inhibitions and embrace silliness and spontaneity. Whether it’s building a fort, having a dance party, or engaging in imaginative play, allow yourself to be playful and enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood alongside your children.
- Practice Gratitude: In the midst of the challenges of parenting, it’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong rather than what’s going right. Take time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life and practice gratitude. Focus on the small moments of joy and the things that you appreciate about your children. Cultivating a mindset of gratitude can shift your perspective and help you find joy in the everyday moments of parenting.
Remember, parenting is not about being perfect—it’s about being present and cherishing the moments you have with your children.
