![]() ![]() Appreciate the Gifts of Each SeasonĮvery stage of parenting has its share of highs and lows. As moms, we have so much on our plates that stopping to look our children in the eyes when they talk to us―and then actually listening to them―can feel like an impossibility. Being ‘in the moment’ gave my children the message they were important to me, and they responded favorably.Įngaging with your children is a basic relationship tool that’s easy to neglect. First, I chose to say no to too many outside commitments, and then I decided to tune in when my children tried to engage with me. I love motherhood, but I have to confess my enjoyment as a mom soared when I made the decision to be present. In both cases we are disengaged, and we’re robbing our children of the kind of focused energy that tells them they matter. But half-listening to our kids while we think about what to cook for supper is just as dangerous. ![]() Over time disengaged parents produce frustrated children, and frustrated children almost guarantee we won’t enjoy motherhood.Įveryone knows mindlessly scrolling on our phones while our children vie for our attention is not only inconsiderate, but potentially harmful to our long-term relationships with them. Granted, there’s only so much time in a day, but our children deserve the best of us, not what’s left over. But our ability to do a million things at once becomes dangerous if it keeps us from stopping long enough to engage with our kids. So multitasking and over-committing are natural-and even helpful. You may just need a few tips to help shift your perspective while you fulfill this important and rewarding role.” 15 TIPS FOR ENJOYING MOTHERHOOD 1. It doesn’t mean you don’t love your kids. “If you’re not enjoying motherhood, don’t be too hard on yourself. One of the first things I tell them is this: I’ve been out of the parenting trenches for years now, and today I spend time encouraging my three delightful daughters as they raise kids of their own. At times, an endless array of disappointments, frustrations, and anxieties made enjoying motherhood feel impossible. Fighting for the hearts of my children was worth every battle scar, but the struggle it required was exhausting. As any experienced mother will tell you, it’s hard being a mom. When my newborn was difficult, every time my strong-willed preschooler fought me for her independence, and when my teenager pushed every hot button I didn’t know I had, motherhood seemed far from enjoyable.īeing a mom is exhilarating and rewarding, but it’s also the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I asked that question countless times while my three daughters were young. A m I the only woman in the whole world who’s not enjoying motherhood?”
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