Episode #154 – Balancing the Demands of Parenthood and Self-care

Balancing the demands of parenthood and self-care is necessary. Being a parent is one of the greatest joys one can experience. Although that may be the case, this journey in itself can be a bit demanding.

When you think about taking care of your children, managing the household, and maintaining relationships can be a bit challenging. However, it is essential that we find the time for a bit of self-care. Your physical, mental, and emotional well-being plays a role beyond compare.

For this reason, it is vital that we find ways to balance out the demands of parenthood and self-care. I’ll share a few tips for achieving such balance.

1. Set Realistic Expectations Towards Parenthood and Self-Care

The first thing we can do to balance the demands of parenthood and self-care is to be real. It’s important that you set realistic goals so that what you can and cannot do are realistic. For this reason, it is important to understand you’ll never be everything to everyone.

We are not always able to please everyone and that is completely fine. Redirect your focus towards realistic goals and expectations. This not only goes for yourself but also for your family as well. Doing so helps prioritize the order of things.

This means being flexible with your schedule. We need not take on certain responsibilities when delegation is available. Therefore, when yous set realistic expectations, managing your time and stress gets a bit easier.

2. Prioritize Self-Care Above All

Without balancing parenthood and self-care, how will you maintain physically, mentally, or even emotionally? That in itself should remain a priority for you and yours. How else are you to show up for your children?

Fulfilling this will require intention. By taking the time to exercise, meditate, or simply enjoying something that lights you up. Finding activities that recharge your energy contributes to making you feel replenished.

That was the very reason for my considering yoga. I knew that taking care of myself would require that I move. How else do results come to light without movement? Whatever it is you choose to do, make sure you put aside time for self-care regularly.

3. Nothing Wrong with A Little Help

Ask and you shall receive. Surrounding ourselves with positive support can be the difference between winning and losing. At the end of the day, none of us need to take this road of life alone. When you reach out, you all have space for those to reach in.

It takes a village to raise a child. By asking your friends and family for help, household chores seem lighter. Asking for help is a crucial component of balancing the demands of parenthood and self-care.

4. Balancing Parenthood and Self-Care Requires Planning

There is nothing better than planning ahead. The importance of planning allows us to balance the many demands of parenthood and self-care we face. By making a schedule, and sticking to it, managing our day to days only get easier.

Grab a planner or a calendar to get your tracking system going. Keep track of all appointments. Doing so can help you create the necessary time for self-care. Along with self-care, you’ll find the necessary time for your children among other responsibilities.

5. A Support System in Need

How can we possibly survive without the support of our friends and family members? Teaming up with other parents can be a great advantage as well. It can be very helpful when it comes to balancing the demands of parenthood and self-care.

Having people around that you can turn to for advice, support, or encouragement leads to better focus. Joining a parent group wouldn’t be a bad idea. A bit of therapy can go a long way as well. Despite what you do, remember it’s better to do it with than alone.

When we reach out for help we give ourselves a well-needed break. Whether you choose to take a few minutes to yourself each day or an energy recharger, it’s necessary. By taking advantage of these breaks, you’ll be able to maintain your newfound journey.

With your breaks lined up, the ability to focus and approach parenthood with a clear and refreshed mind. In addition, taking a break only makes it easier for you to see the many perspectives available to you. It allows you the space to work productively.

Join me for Episode #155 – Parenting Through Trauma: Navigating the Challenges and Finding Resilience. By continually finding time for self-care, parents can find the strength and support to navigate their experiences. This will help create a safe, loving environment for our children.