As
a parent, a busy family life will involve many things – caring for the home, children, working outside of the
home, and possibly volunteering. You may not have the time to care for your own needs, but it’s important that you do;
a happy parent equals a happy family life.
Take time out to pursue your own hobby or interest. Nearly every parenting
book will espouse the need of parents to pursue some of their own interests to avoid burn-out. Perhaps you played a sport
before becoming a parent. Being active will keep you healthy, show your children how to be healthy through activity, and increase
endorphins in your body which will improve your mood and the ability to cope with family life .
Include your children in your hobby. Maybe you loved to roller skate
as a teen. It may be time to take up skating again. Get skates for the whole family and everyone can have fun together.
Maybe your interests lie in another direction. Are you fixing up a
room in the house? Children can learn how to help with do-it-yourself projects as well. They generally like painting even
if they can’t reach the ceiling. Why not let them help? You’ll be able to share your interest with your child
and get more accomplished at the same time.
Give yourself a time out away from family life at least for a short
while. This might be associated primarily with disobedient children, but time outs can be a great idea for helping you to
de-stress, which can definitely improve how you feel. This can also help you be a better parent because you’ll be calmer
and more able to handle your children and the rigours of family life.
How do you know when you need a time out? Here are some indicators:
- You might talk louder
- You may clench your teeth
- You may feel your heart race
- You may feel your muscles tighten
If your children are safe, try leaving the situation. You can also
ask another adult to keep an eye on them until you’ve cooled off. Go to your room or the bathroom where you can be alone
for a few minutes. Take some deep breaths and then call a friend to help you talk thing through before returning to the stress-causing
situation. When you’ve calmed down, you’ll be able to handle the situation better.
It’s important to realize you can’t do things for others
– whether partner, children, or boss – if you’re tired, worn out, and frazzled. The old saying goes, “If
Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” That may apply to parents in general, so do what you can to make
yourself happy. Experts agree a happy parent equals a happy family life.
