I don’t go in for perfection, or for beating ourselves up for what we are NOT—but I do find that as a single parent, challenging myself to be a loving, attentive, and involved parent has got me through some pretty rugged and rocky times. So often, I think, single parents are just “getting by” and we get caught up in the details of daily living—but focusing on improving our parenting skills and being a great parent can take us out of our own heads and troubles and put the focus on our families.
There is a myth out there that single parents are somehow “less” in terms of their parenting skills. While I don’t think we need to be really rough on ourselves and beat ourselves up for not being “perfect,” I do think that striving to get out of “survival mode” and get beyond just getting by is a good thing. Just because there is only one of us, doesn’t mean we can’t be a fabulous parent! Those myths are just that—myths—there is no reason that a single parent should ever be or feel like less of a parent than one who is partnered.
So, if things are getting you down or you’re feeling overwhelmed—instead of giving in to feelings of depression or self-doubt, how about taking a parenting class? Or reading an inspirational book or other publication with valid ideas you can try in your own family? Trying new parenting techniques, brainstorming with other parents, finding a mentor or an older family member to troubleshoot parenting issues with can be incredibly inspiring and can help remind us what we’re here for. It isn’t just about keeping the cupboards full and the bills paid—there is always room for us to develop more as parents and learn how we can enjoy parenting even more too.
Also: If The Kids Come First, Where am I on the List?
Do You Have a Vision for Your Family?