It might very well be the most important advice in parenting.
We, too, can practice being sage-arific and it lies in repeating the following action and making it a habit:
Take yourself less seriously. What’s there to lose? The serious, strict face? What’s there to gain? A better relationship with your children? More laughter (which can only improve the health you’ve been complaining about lately)?
A habit is started by practicing something new for 21 days straight. Do you dare take yourself less seriously starting now? You know what taking yourself less serious means for you, for each of us it’s a little or a lot different but, overall, just remember that just because we’re parents and have bills to pay doesn’t mean we can’t have fun.
When I want to start something “new” this is how I start – at Day 1.
I keep a post it or paper to the side of my computer and literally note a 1 for each day I’ve completed what I’ve set out to do. When I have 21 hash marks I celebrate. Again, it’s never fool-proof but that’s not the point. The point is to attempt every day at least once to live out loud, to be more playful and kid-like in your approach with your children. They really do learn best when you talk their fun language. (not to mention, in their eyes, they will feel so loved)
Last month my 21 days and 21 hash marks had to do with smiling and taking time for a genuine hello to my husband when we first saw each other after our day apart. The month before that was no cellphone during after school hours until bedtime so I could be more emotionally available for my son (no distraction with facebook or texts).
How to be a walking Momtra™/Dadtra: Rush; take yourself less seriously.
Time IS a finite commodity…don’t worry, be happy now!
Your kids will not remember all the “important”, serious things you had to do but they will remember you saying you didn’t have time or how often you made that serious face about fun things like jumping on the bed or getting mud or grass stains on their nice, party clothes.
Enjoy and in joy…until next time.
