As we all know, a stressed out parent is a cranky parent. A parent who is less likely to have time to read a story before bed and is more likely to snap over an accidentally spilled glass of milk. Perhaps your stressor is a demanding job at a commercial mortgage company or the illness of a friend. Whatever it is, it's affecting your parenting, and not in a good way. To help get back to normal and avoid passing your stress onto your kids, here are some ways to cut back the tension in your life.
Reduce Work Hours
Obviously for some parents this will be impossible, especially in a recession. But get together with the other provider in your family if you have one and with your cheque book if you don't, and see if you can't tighten your belts. Doing with less will actually give you more. More time to listen to your kids gush about learning data encryption in computer class, more time to attend soccer games, and more time to be intimate with your significant other.
Decompress
Sometimes when we're stressed out we pass the stress on to the other people in our lives by accident. By coming home and going right into parenting mode with your head full of the logistics of Toronto event catering, you're missing out on your own life. So before you ask "how was your day" or head out to an after school activity, take time to meditate for at least a few minutes. You don't need to be a swami. Just sit alone with your eyes closed, breathing deeply and letting go of your problems.
Share Burdens
Often though, our stressors aren't solely related to work. Colicky children, behavior problems, medical issues, and even the continuing maintenance required by our Bay Street condos can all ramp up the tension. In this case, don't be afraid to ask for help. Let a friend or relative baby sit to give you some relaxation time. Or, if your personal problems are weighing on you, talk it out. It doesn't have to be with a therapist either, although that is one option. It can be anyone you trust - a friend, relative, mentor, or support group.
Exercise
You might think that adding an exercise routine to your already stressful life will be just one more burden on your time, but actually the physical act of exercising helps to relieve tension. When we exercise, our brains release endorphins that make us happier and more energetic. So find something you like - jogging, aerobics, cycling, swimming, boxing, whatever floats your boat - and take your frustrations over that deal with Barksdale Control Products out in a healthy way.
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