Well the holiday season is finally over and we begin a new year. For many of us we look at this moment as a time to hit restart and turn over a new leaf.
I’d like to encourage you to let new year’s resolutions go, the majority are broken by the 9th of January anyway. Instead focus this year on what gives you life and energy. Who are the people that make you feel good and supported? Make a choice to spend more time with them in 2014. Reflect on the people who drain your energy, take up too much of your time and think about putting in some boundaries or spending less time with them. Think about the activities that nurture and sustain you – ramp those up in 2014.
Also, what if this year you decide to pay more attention to your role as a parent and mentor in your child’s/childrens lives and make some intentions that the whole family can benefit from? When reviewing the last year in your mind, like most parents you may feel like you nagged too much, didn’t spend enough time with your children, or maybe you tend to over-react. But before you beat yourself up and dwell on the past, here are some things to consider that will make your future brighter and more enjoyable for the entire family:
- Stay Present. This year, set the intention to be fully present as much as possible to the people in our life, particularly our children.
- Be Consistent. Try to have a specific consequence for each bad behavior and stick to it. Try not to make those empty threats and be clear with your boundaries and limits.
- Spend Time Together. Most of the time children are looking for their parent’s approval and attention. When you spend more time together as a family, you are building their confidence and the bond you share as a family.
- Be Encouraging. Our children need to hear encouraging words that will build their self-esteem and let them know they are loved. It is estimated that every child will hear one encouraging word for every seventeen negative comments thrown their way. Let’s change those statistics.
- Take a Break. Being a parent is exhausting and hard work. Every parent needs and deserves to have a break once and awhile, without feeling guilty. Try to schedule some personal time to do the things that you enjoy or have a date night with your spouse.
Although we all strive to be the perfect parent, it is important to stay focused on the things that truly matter in life. After all, there is no such thing as the perfect parent and as long as everyone in your household is happy and healthy, then you are doing a great job. Try not to sweat the small stuff and remember to enjoy those little moments with your children.
Kristen
http://www.spiritualityandparenting.com
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