4 Things to Let Go of to be a Happier Parent

Image courtesy: Elina Fairytale/ Pexels

So, it’s ok to forget something. It’s ok to let go. As kids grow older, it’s also wiser to let them take more control over their lives. Yes, they will make mistakes, but they will also learn from them, and this is important.

Let go of control
While it’s nice to be fully tuned to what your child is up to, and hover around them, it does take up a lot of parental energy. The primary thing that changes in our life a parent is the amount of time we have for ourselves after scheduling everything around our kids. Yes, it’s not easy to just walk out the door when you have kids – the whole baby bag, food, nappies, keys, the purpose why you’re going out, all weighs down on you. So, it’s ok to forget something. It’s ok to let go. As kids grow older, it’s also wiser to let them take more control over their lives. Yes, they will make mistakes, but they will also learn from them, and this is important. And letting go, allows for less stress and more influence in your child’s life.

Let go of comparisons
Just because your friend’s son does 3 hobby lessons, yours doesn’t need to. Parents often compare with their peers and end up pushing kids into things that are not needed. The way you parent your child is not up for discussion with the way another parent does. So, stick to your convictions and believe that your child is in good hands. While, it’s easy to say, it’s definitely important to keep your confidence up as a parent. Make sure that you feel strong and happy as a parent.

Let go of parental guilt
Last year I forgot to dress up my child on costume day and he was the only one without a costume in class. Well, he didn’t complain, but I felt horrid at the end of the day at pick up time. How could I forget? I am not at all tuned in to what’s happening in school. Well, drop the guilt. It’s just one costume day. There’ll be many more. And if it was important for him, trust me, your child will remind you. Have some faith in their ability to discern, after all you are bringing them up! Parents carry guilt in various areas, going back to work after birth, food choices, feeding bottled milk, taking a break without kids, going on a date night with your spouse – well, keeping your sanity and staying happy is the key to happy parenting.

Let go of managing things alone
Hire that nanny. Don’t think twice. When I went back to work, I had a nanny come-in when I came back from work and she took my son out to play for and hour before she got him home to a warm shower and meal. A lot of people suggested that I shower and feed him myself, but I stood my ground. These are mundane tedious tasks to do after a whole day at work.  When she took him out, I got an hour to wind down and prep myself for my child. I was fresh and happy when he came back from his walk and bath! And we spent a lot of time reading and playing together. If not a nanny, you can always ask for help from your neighbours, grandparents or anyone whom you trust with your child. Remember, your wellbeing is more important for the wellbeing of the child.