Tips from a Parent Coach: Prioritizing Yourself As a Parent
As a parent, you may feel shame and guilt when you prioritize yourself, but it's normal. In fact, taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your family. When you take a moment for you to take care of your physical and mental health, you're a better parent overall. However, knowing how to prioritize yourself can be tough.
Choose a Favorite Activity
If you need the motivation to prioritize yourself, think about an activity that you really enjoy. It can be something as simple as reading or going on a day trip. Even catching up on your favorite tv show that you're behind on. When you have something to look forward to, it's easier to make time for yourself. It can give you something to focus on when you're feeling overwhelmed.
You can also use this time to do parts of your self-care routine. For example, you can use it to exercise or take a relaxing bath. Doing things that make you feel good can help improve your mood and make it easier to cope with stress. Plus, it saves you from trying to do these with your child which can be difficult.
Treat it like a Doctor's Appointment
Like any appointment you put on your calendar, self-care should be scheduled too. And just like you wouldn't miss a doctor's appointment, don't cancel on yourself either. This is time is important for you to relax, recharge, and check in with yourself. You might find that you're needing more self-care than you thought.
For example, if you're frequently feeling burnt out or impatient, this can give you time to explore those feelings. It can also give you time away from being the center focus of your family so you can return feeling refreshed. You can even make a therapy appointment during this time if you feel like you need to talk to someone outside of your family.
Remember, You're a Better Parent When You Take Care of Yourself
I'm sure you have heard the saying, "You can't pour from an empty cup" and it's true. To be the best parent you can be, you need to take care of yourself too. Otherwise, you'll quickly become burnt out giving your all to your family, friends, and work. When you take time for yourself, it allows you to be more patient and navigate stressful situations better. Because you know as a parent, you're going to be handling your child's big emotions while trying to keep your cool. So, make sure you have time for yourself.
Plus, self-care doesn't have to be a big event either. It can be something as small as taking a walk around the block or taking a few minutes to yourself when you wake up in the morning. It doesn't have to be complicated to be effective. It can even be getting coffee with a friend or even by yourself. If it's something you enjoy and makes you feel good, it counts as self-care.
Interested in Parent Coaching in San Antonio, TX?
At Monarch Behavioral Health, we know that as a parent, you sometimes need someone in your corner. That's why we offer parent coaching services. We can help you with everything from stress management to building a game plan to implement self-care into your routine. If you’re interested in beginning parent coaching services, you can follow these steps:
Contact our therapy office and learn more about our services
Meet with one of our caring therapists. For more information, contact us or call 210.384.1254.
Gain the support you need to be the best parent you can be! Click here for more on parent counseling.
Other Therapy Services Offered at Monarch Behavioral Health
Our team at Monarch Behavioral Health in San Antonio, TX understands that parenting is a difficult job. You're someone else's everything and that can be a lot of pressure. That's why we offer other therapy services in addition to parent coaching. We want to support you in any way possible. Whether it's anxiety or stress. Or, may you're struggling with depression. Perhaps, you're needing postpartum therapy to adjust to your new role as a parent. Regardless of your situation, we are here to offer support. Our San Antonio therapists also offer therapy for children, teens, and adults of all ages. If you have questions about how we can help you or a member of your family, please feel welcome to reach out and ask!