Five things parents should let go of for greater happiness
While raising kids, parents can sometimes forget about their own needs.
By Livia Gamble
May 05 2017
Parenting is a tough but rewarding job. And while your focus is on your kids and their happiness, parents can sometimes forget about their own.
A recent article written by Carol Tuttle author of the best-selling book, The Child Whisper, says the key to happy parenting isn’t adding more things to your life. Instead, it’s about letting go.
Five things parents should let go of for greater happiness
Putting everyone else's needs before your own
Raising children is a big job, but taking care of yourself should still be a priority. As Tuttle writes, “When you ignore your basic needs, you teach your children that when they grow up, they shouldn’t take care of themselves.”
Feeling guilty
When guilt starts to affect how you think of yourself as a mother, it’s time to let it go.
The woulda, shoulda, coulda
Everyone has an idea of what raising a family might look like but sometimes the reality doesn’t match up - and that’s okay!
“If you hold onto the way things are 'supposed' to be, you may miss enjoying how they actually are,” writes Tuttle.
Keeping score and comparing yourself to others
It doesn’t matter which parent does more, or who participates with school obligations the most, “just do what you feel inspired and able to do.’
Dinnertime battles
For parents of fussy eaters, the nightly dinnertime battle can cause major stress. Too many rules at the table guarantee a struggle. “Guide, direct, encourage, and prepare healthy food. Let your child voice their preferences,” says Tuttle. “Focus on healthy overall patterns, rather than forcing a certain regimen at a specific meal.”
