Five things parents should let go of for greater happiness

While raising kids, parents can sometimes forget about their own needs.

May 05 2017

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.”

Read the full article here.