Too often, as parents, we forget that we’re part of the parenting equation. We focus solely on our children, putting off our own care for another day. We might believe we are noble, generous, selfless people, but really we are depleted, exhausted, empty and emotionally unavailable to ourselves and others. If we want our sons and daughters to have happy childhoods; it’s necessary for us to have happy parenthoods. We can’t have one without the other.
Today, what is one thing you can do for yourself so, at the end of the day, you can claim, “Today, I had a happy parenthood!” Do you let your child do his homework by himself while you read a book in the other room? Do you take time for yourself instead of complete another chore while it’s nap time? Do you notice shoes, books or toys on the floor and NOT pick them up?
Happy parenthoods are created just like happy childhoods requiring intention, commitment and action. Try one thing today that supports your happiness and notice how you and your child benefit when you include yourself in the parenting equation.
