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Raising a kid single-handedly can bring you much stress and disappointments, especially if you have been caught entirely off-guard by life’s predicaments. Parenting brings unimaginable joy if you are well-supported by your partner and your network circle. However, if unexpected circumstances lead to a separation or divorce with your partner, you could be amid much strain and pressure. The same holds true even if you’ve made the conscious decision to be a single parent right from the start. This makes it imperative for you to take time out of your busy schedule to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate.
If you have been occupied with taking care of “others” (even if it’s your baby), you are bound to feel the single parent burnout. A little “me-time” hurts no one, and there is no reason to feel guilty about the decisions you make for your personal growth, health, and peace of mind. So, practicing intentional self-care as a single parent is critical to raising a happy baby. If you’re tired, depressed, or just frustrated as a single parent, these could be signs that you need to regain your lost vitality. Here are a few ways in which you can get fitter and stronger (mentally and physically) to support and nurture your child in a positive environment:
Organize Your Schedule
Discarding the idea of a well-chalked-out routine is counterintuitive to your plans of going through your day without hiccups. Space out your daily schedule to take care of your priorities and fit in some activities that help you take your mind off the daily stresses.
Choose To Date Cautiously
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You might want to be in a relationship again, and that’s great. But take great care in making the right choice so that you do not end up in a complicated relationship that has consequences for your baby and you. Your baby shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of your mistakes. As being a single parent comes with huge responsibilities, no matter how much you crave to bring a father or mother figure into your child’s life, be careful. Not everyone can be the right fit or be willing to fill that vacuum in your baby’s life. Therefore, it’s best to keep your dating life discreet and separate from your home until the foundation of the relationship is well laid out, and clear expectations have been communicated.
Indulge In A Stress-Busting Activity
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As a single parent, you have a long list of responsibilities to fulfill. Parenthood in itself is a never-ending job. When you’re a single parent, the responsibilities are doubled. So, engage in some exercise to lower your stress levels like signing up for a fitness program, playing a sport you have always had your eye on, dancing, painting, knitting, yoga, pilates, or anything else that you fancy. The whole idea is to do something for yourself to go on with your day happily, achieve your daily goals with more energy and enthusiasm, and proactively take care of your baby’s needs.
Socialize With Your Network
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As a single parent, you may feel cut off from the joys of a vibrant social life. So, go out and have some fun with your best friends. But know that when you are well-supported, you will be competent to execute your tasks. The importance of a community and friend circle is well-established by science in raising babies (1). It is not just crucial for your mental health, but your baby too. You may need a friend to rely on and reach out to in case of difficulties or setbacks. Also, a sense of belonging to a tribe will make you feel backed up, allowing you to raise your child in a healthy environment.
As a parent, you want to teach your child to be a responsible adult. Thus, a strong community life is vital to making them learn the value of relationships. Most importantly, it will also allow your kid to keep their mind off the lacuna that the loss or separation from a father left in their life.
Plan Out Your Finances Prudently
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Being a single parent is a double job. You want nothing but the best for your precious one. If you are a single parent, you are not just managing the household but also making all financial decisions to pay your bills. These will have unwanted stresses attached, so taking financial advice from a trusted source can ease out your worries to a great extent. If you are unemployed, consider taking a job or diversifying your investment portfolio to have multiple sources of income. Additionally, a side hustle can be a fantastic idea if you have a concrete plan already in place.
Schedule Some “Me” Time
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There is nothing wrong or shameful in prioritizing your happiness. You have to be strong for your baby. The journey is long, and only conscious adjustments and shifts can help you reach your destination of mothering a baby that you’re proud of!
Maintain a journal and pen down your thoughts along with the things you are most grateful for. Set time aside to meditate and relax. Take a walk to a nature park or retreat to a beautiful landscape that helps you recharge and feel inspired. Nonetheless, assure yourself that you have got it under your control. If you believe in yourself, you’ll always find a way out of any mess you may be in at the moment.
Being a parent is a fascinating experience, but the life of a single parent can be a difficult one. Social stereotypes may deter you and throw obstacles in your path to being the perfect role model for your baby but pay no heed. You’re doing great, so give yourself a break and do what you need to do. What challenges do you face as a single parent? What are your ideas on being the best single parent? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
