Going through any divorce challenges you as a person. It also challenges you as a parent. Let’s take a look at two more ways you can remain a rockstar parent - all while going through the upheaval of a major separation.
Focus on Yourself
“Being a parent often means that our own needs come last, and sometimes that means we completely kick them to the curb,” says an article in The Huffington Post.
As parents, we’re constantly sacrificing our own needs for those of our children. And yet, treating yourself kindly and exercising self-care can give your parenting a real boost.
“When you treat yourself well, goodness trickles down into your relationships with… your kids, your friends, and your community,” says Christine Koh, author of Minimalist Parenting.
Connect With Trusted Friends
“A good friendship is a wonderful antidepressant,” says psychologist Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, director of the Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research at the Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Spending time with friends - especially through a hard time like a divorce - is critical. Friends will keep things in perspective, they will give you an emotional lift, and they will be the support network you need to persevere when things get tough.
Remember That It Takes Time… And Trust That You’re Doing Great.
“Keeping yourself as physically and emotionally healthy as possible can help combat the effects of stress,” continues Kid’s Health, “...and by making sure you’re taking care of your own needs, you can ensure that you’ll be in the best possible shape to take care of your kids.”
Prioritizing your own wellbeing through self-care and friendship can ease the divorce process, and be a game-changer for both you and your kids.
Summary of Part I and III: In part one of this series, we talked about how to maintain boundaries between your divorce details and your kids, in part three of this series we’ll discuss how to talk with your kids about their feelings.
