As parents, we have multiple responsibilities. There are constant requests and attention needed from diferent parties. At times, it feels like we are pulled in all directions. Can we have a break?
If you feel tired and frustrated by the balancing act, take a deep breath, and know there is help!
Consider these ways to manage stress:
- Focus on what you can control. Everyone can feel stressed if things don’t go their way. We must focus on things we can maintain and infuence while dealing with the uncontrollable separately. It can help us identify our priorities and work alongside them.
Commonly, our children don’t act as you expect of them. Remember that you can’t control how they work, but you can manage your reaction.
- Prioritize quality time. We will have moments away from our children; thus, allocating quality time with them with our undivided attention is more important. Organize your daily schedule well.
Simple activities like reading bedtime stories, playing sports and games with them, or teaching them a new skill or a concept might be easy afairs; however, it does mean to them.
- Focus on Breathing. Take a deep breath whenever you are stressed. It is an excellent habitual practice to focus on breathing well for general health, as breathing increases oxygen fow to our brain and calms us.
- Optimize your family’s time. Can the family fnish the chores together? Have a plan with your spouse and children; let everyone come to an agreement and do it together.
- Ask for support. Ask your partner, family, or friend for help if you feel overwhelmed. You may need a listening ear or take care of your children on your behalf for a single afternoon.
- Think about the priorities in your life. Evaluate your priorities. If you care a lot about spending quality time with your children, prioritize this daily.
- Identifying non-urgent tasks. We get overwhelmed when we feel there is much to do. The truth is that not all things are urgent. We should put some aside.
- Although it may be challenging to integrate exercise into your busy schedule, physical activity can rejuvenate your body and mind. Even just being outdoors may help to clear your thoughts. If you fnd integrating exercise into your schedule challenging, start by turning exercise into a family activity.
- Identify your triggers. Consider what triggers your emotions.
What makes you angry or anxious? When do you notice yourself getting angry? Identifying your triggers is a basic step to managing your reactions to these moments.
- Set boundaries. One may feel stressed because you receive work calls while having dinner with your family. Alternatively, you may notice you need more time alone. What are some recurring situations in life that unnecessarily stress you out?
We can also set boundaries with the people around us by communicating what we need.
The demands of parenthood can be intense. Making progress in managing your stress will help you and those around you. It’s easy to feel stressed even by thinking alone.
