Being a single parent comes with a huge load of responsibilities. You will be the one who is shaping your child, personally and professionally. You cannot expect someone else to be present to help you identify the right course of action or rectify your mistakes. And, hence, taking the right decisions is definitely a burdensome task that requires intense levels of scrutinizing. Here are seven rules that you could follow to become a successful single parent.
1. Have A Support Team Handy
A support system is very essential, not just for the survival purposes. It is also the key to keeping you in your senses. Find a group of local friends whom you can rely on in cases of urgency. You could also find an extended family in the locale where you are staying with your kids. You could also find out other single parents who are staying near you. There are numerous online sites that offer support to single parents as well. Having these people and systems handy could be beneficial when you find yourself lost in the whirlpool of duties and tasks.
2. Have Some “Me” Time
It is absolutely essential to schedule your “me” time. This would give you sufficient energy to recuperate and reenergize. Schedule a babysitter, if you can afford, or you could ask one of your friends to do babysitting as you take time off from the schedule. You can use this time to go out and indulge in something you love. Make it a daily routine to spend 30 minutes for yourself. A relaxing warm bath or reading a book of your choice could help you de-stress and relax.
3. Establish A Set of Rules
Children do test your patience and limits, but when it exceeds the manageable levels you should know how to control the same. So, lay down a set of rules that are slightly stringent, but at the same ensures that it provides for the healthy growth and development of your children. Review the rules and modify them as and when required so that it could adapt the changing needs.
[ Read: How To Monitor Your Baby Without Being There ]
4. Set Boundaries
Telling the children where “the line” is essential to ensure that they do not misbehave. Making your children understand where the boundary exists could help them realize their mistakes and make necessary corrections. Setting the boundaries underpins your expectations while making the kids feel that you trust their potential. It could really be to say a no, but learning to say no to a situation could go a long way!
5. Spend Quality Time With Your Children
Your kids are your energy refills. Spending quality time with them recharges you. It prevents emotional drain. Plus, it recreates and strengthens the bond between you and them. 10 to 15 minutes a day is sufficient for this, and you could easily do this without drifting away from your priorities.
[ Read: How Much Screen Time Is Okay For Your Kid? ]
6. Do Not Feel Guilty
Feeling guilty is the worst thing to happen to a single parent. Forget and forgive the scenarios that led to breaking up with your partner. It is not the time to brood over spilled milk. Move on. Your children need you at the moment. So make peace with your past and release the guilt.
7. Be Positive
It is tough, but remember that your attitude matters a lot. If you are sour and filled with negativity, you will not be able to handle yourself and your children. Start journaling your thoughts to understand how you are feeling. Once you realize the path, you will be able to craft a new path that is filled with love and positive elements.
Last, but not the least, never shy away from asking help. It is perfectly fine. You can always ask for help if you need some. Single parents, especially mothers, might need help. Look forward to someone who could be a friend in need.
It is okay to be a single parent. Just embrace the moment, accept, and acknowledge the same! You will soon find the rhythm of life falling into your flow!