Trying to keep your cool isn't the easiest thing in the world. This is especially true for parents since being a parent means that you're a provider, teacher, guidance counselor, friend, and sometimes disciplinarian all rolled into one. And as much as parents try their best to always be in a Zen-like state of mind, stress can sometimes get the better of them.
Here are some sure-fire ways to keep your cool whenever you're feeling stressed out:
1. Take advantage of time-outs
There can be moments where your patience can wear thin when it comes to your kids. That's why time-outs are very important. Time-outs give your child a moment to think about their actions and also gives you time to calm yourself down. Once the time-out is done, make sure to talk to your child and give them positive assurance.
2. Take two minutes
If you're child is being difficult or is having a tantrum, another thing that you can do would be to sit your child down for a couple of minutes to give her a tight hug, or rub her back. Sometimes children throw tantrums just because they need some of your affection. Spending those few minutes with your child can really make their day better.
3. Remember to breathe
Sometimes you're the one that needs to have a time out. Take some time to breathe and think about why you wanted to become a parent in the first place. Whenever you see your kids happy and smiling, you'll realize that it's all worth it.
4. Always be prepared
Being a parent is all about constant preparation. Being prepared for anything lets you handle problems with ease and it will really help keep you calm under pressure.
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5. Laugh it off
Sometimes just laughing it off is the best way to deal with stress. They say that laughter is the best medicine and it's especially true if you're a parent.
6. Develop a routine
Having a routine will help keep you calm; even under pressure. Having a strong routine and sticking to it helps keep everything in order and you'll have less headaches since the day is already planned out.
7. Take care of yourself
While taking care of your family is important, you should never neglect yourself. It'll be difficult for you to handle the thing that happen in your family if you also have a lot of problems with yourself. That's why you need to take some time and pamper yourself and make yourself feel good. Go out and treat yourself to a nice spa day or catch up with friends that you haven't seen in a long time.
8. Practice empathy
For parents, it's very important to practice empathy. Knowing not only how your kids feel, but also how your spouse and other members of your family feel will help you deal with problems better.
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