Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, sleep deprived, worried about Covid-19, finances and finding it hard to remain calm? You are not alone, all mothers’ experience losing their temper and snapping at the kids. However, you do not have to go wild on them. As a mother and a loving aunt, here are some few tips that have worked for me:
You need plenty of rest and sleep – Sleep deprivation is a killer in all aspects be it mentally, physically or psychologically. Your skin is going to look like average Nancy, your mood will be worse and you will be one grumpy tired looking mama. If you are feeling exhausted, take a nap too when your kids go down for one. You could also ask your partner to watch them for you as you rest. Try and get your eight hours of sleep if you can.
Wake up before your kids do – By now, you already know that your kids should have a schedule and be sleep trained. This will help you in going about your day around their activities. Wake up earlier, take your breakfast in peace, do your skincare routine and any other important work. By the time the kids wake up, you will be happy to see and start a beautiful and temper free day with them.
Do not take your kids behavior personally – I know you could be angry, frustrated, helpless, and thinking that they are pushing your buttons on purpose. Tantrums come as a result of a need that is not being met, but you cannot realize this while you shout and scream at your child. Be the bigger person and listen to the child and find a way to solve it without snapping out.
Manage your thoughts – Listen and acknowledge your triggers and emotions. What you feel inside is what you literally project outside. You do not need to be a perfect parent; you just need to be a good happy parent.
Stop and Breathe – Every now and then even the most patient parent at some point loses their cool. So what do you do? Stop, breathe to ten until you are able to get your emotions and act together. Go back to them lovingly and help them out.
You do not have to do everything – It is okay to leave dishes unwashed, house not hovered, laundry not done and a million other things you think you should do by the night time. As long as your kids had a bath and food to eat you are doing well. Don’t fret!
Make time for yourself – When I first became a mom, I quickly realized that I needed time out in order not to sink into postpartum depression. So what did I do? I made sure baby had enough milk and asked my sister to come over. I happily and excitedly went to the mall did some therapy shopping for myself only no baby stuff at all. I also got a mani-pedicure and some ice-cream. I went back home happy and feeling cute. I still do this to date. Try it.
Eat healthy and drink plenty of water – When your body is hydrated, healthy and flourishing every system in your body will be balanced including your emotions. Eating healthy really makes you feel good about yourself thus giving you good positive vibes.
Do something you love – Get away from parenting once in a while to keep your sanity in check. I love to write or binge-watch some of my favourite shows. What do you love to do? It could be painting, some DIY projects or mat making. As long as you enjoy it, do it! You will make your days better and happier.
Realize that one day they will be gone – They say “the days maybe long but the years are short”. So as you go about parenting in a sulky and angry mood, do realize that the kids are growing up and soon they will leave the nest and they probably will not need you as much then. Do relish the time you have with them and savour it all. Be silly, play with them, hug and kiss them all you can.
Love,
Clare
About the author: Clare Hinga is a Finance student who loves to write about all things lifestyle, beauty, and skincare. You can see more of her work on https://clarehinga.wordpress.com and Instagram: beautybyclare.ke
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