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Having patience with all things is a complex task in itself. But if you add being a calm parent to the mix, then it is a whole new level of zen experience. Do you relate to this dilemma?
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of parenting is that there’s no one way of getting it right. So you can stumble upon new ways on your parenting journey every day. At least that’s my basic aim in life. Take baby steps and one day, you will be able to whip up a handbook on what works for you and your kids.
Having said this, it’s easier said than done. Isn’t it?
While patience is a virtue, it’s a tough lesson to take on. Especially as a parent trying to find ways to simplify parenting.
My kids test my patience day and night. Perhaps because they have no one else who can give them such undivided attention. It’s often challenging to head into a situation with a positive mindset and have the ability to let go of past mistakes. What makes it harder is the notion that parents have to deal with a barrage of their children’s emotions without retaliating to the same.
And when that doesn’t work, there’s a screaming match between you and your partner, and sometimes, the kids are on the other end of the tunnel.
Read on to see how you can keep up with being a patient parent instead of focusing on sheer perfection.
Give Your Children Love And Assurance
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I’m sure not all of us have had the same childhood experiences. All families are dysfunctional in some way, and we carry a part of it when we have a family of our own. The only thing you can consider as a work in progress is to let your kids know you love them. Don’t dwell on your past and make it their present. Regardless of your past trauma, wake up each day with a clean slate.
Agree To Disagree Sometimes
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Parents can’t always get it right and children will not always understand where you are coming from! So instead of challenging the odds, agree to disagree on some matters. It’s only a fair way to go about things.
Don’t Let Guilt Drive You
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Did you miss a ball game or a poetry recital? Is your little one extremely upset that you couldn’t show up for them in good times or bad?
No worries. There’s always going to be the next time. While your kids will be mad at you for a while, instead of giving in to your guilt and exploding at them. Ensure that you come out of it stronger. Apologizing to children doesn’t make you any smaller. You are on the path of instilling good values in your kids and you are better for it. So don’t lose patience and keep striving to stay away from the guilt that drives you.
Take Time Off
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It goes without saying that parenting is a full-time job. But that doesn’t mean there are no perks. While it’s harder to get time off from parenting as compared to other jobs, you can find ways to compartmentalize and make time for yourself. To be patient and attract peace of mind, you need to master the art of taking quick breaks. Just pick up a book that intrigues you or head to your favorite gig, you can always get a nanny or a relative to babysit, and venture out on your own to find solace.
Let’s face the facts! Sometimes, we feel forced to be emotionally available for our children based on our childhood experiences. But instead of trying to be perfect around our kids all the time and feeling overwhelmed, why not work on ourselves and our mental health? At the end of the day, all we want is for our children to have a happy childhood and feel secure. And the only way to achieve that is by being a patient parent who understands that all good things take time.
