Being a single parent is never easy.
When you’re the only person taking care of your child, this means that you have to cater to all of your child’s needs whether emotionally or financially, while making sure that every aspect of your personal life is also taken care of. Just thinking about all of these things at once can leave you exhausted. But it shouldn’t be this way all the time. As a single parent, there are several ways on how you can take care of yourself, and you can start by following these tips:
1. Know your limit
Yes, you’re a single parent, and you want to do everything for your child but keep in mind that you’re not a superhero. You have your limits, and you should know what these limits are because these can play a role in how you can function. For some, they consider their limits when they can no longer look at their child because they’re too frustrated about the things they can’t do while some, their limit is when they no longer have the time and energy to have fun with their friends. Once you can determine what’s yours, be aware of when you have reached it.
2. Never neglect your health
Seeing your child well and healthy is rewarding when you’re a single parent. This is why most of your hard-earned money is spent on your child’s doctor appointments and supplements. But while you’re doing all of these, you should never forget about your health as well. When you’re unwell, no one will take care of your child, and that would put them in a very tough situation. You should always be emotionally and physically healthy so you can look after your child long-term. One way of doing this is by acquiring health insurance apt for single parents like you.
3. Get help when needed
You don’t have to manage everything by yourself. For sure, there are many people who are more than willing to help you in your situation. Your friends and family will always be there to lend a helping hand when it comes to your child. You can even ask a stranger for help when you can no longer carry all of your child’s diaper bags in public. If needed, you can also hire for household help to assist you with everyday chores. There are many ways you can get help, all you have to do it ask. And asking help from people doesn’t make you less as a single parent – it only makes you a better and wiser one.
4. Forget what everyone else is doing and thinking
When you’re a single parent, it’s typical to compare your situation to others. You might even think that because of your decisions as a single parent, other families around will think that you’re ineffective as a parent; that you can’t handle everything from your child because of your hired help. Focusing on these notions will only become the reason why you’ll be depressed – stop caring about what others think and say about you. Pour out your time and efforts to things that matter, namely your child.
5. Hold onto your dreams
Being a single parent is never an excuse to forget about your dreams. Yes, your child is your priority, but you should never disappear from the world just because you’re thinking about your child’s welfare. On the contrary, you should create your own identity. If you want to become a manager with the company you’re working with right now, don’t let your single parent status hinder you from doing that – you can even use that as an inspiration!
6. Exercise regularly
Exercise can do wonders for your body, and regardless of how busy you are with your child, exercise should still be part of your daily routine. If your child often uses a bike, run with them in your local park. When they’re old enough to play sports, go out and have fun with them. You can also opt to play video games that require movements such as Wii or Just Dance. Doing any of these will not only make you healthier, but these can also be very good avenues to bond with your child.
7. Talk to a friend
It’s very therapeutic when you talk to a friend about your problems. This is an excellent way of releasing your stress and frustrations while gaining important pieces of advice. When you feel like you can no longer handle the responsibilities of a single parent, call your friends and meet up with them. Vent out all of your problems to them, and for sure, you’ll feel good after doing so.
8. Be proactive about your happiness the same way you are about your child’s
Your child loves candies and ice cream that’s why whenever you have a chance, you always bring these to him. Your child loves cartoons, so you give them the time to watch their favourite shows during the weekend. But how about your happiness? Are you also proactive in treating yourself with things that make you happy? Don’t forget about spoiling yourself once in a while because one day, you might realize that you forgot about being happy.
When you’re a single parent, you’re basically taking the roles of two people for your child. You have to juggle several things at the same time just so you can provide for them. You have to fit all of your responsibilities in 24 hours a day and make sure that you’re not compromised. All of these are facts, but these shouldn’t be the reason to completely forget about yourself. Yes, your child will always be the priority, but your wellness should never be taken for granted. Keep in mind the tips presented in this article because once you take care of yourself, you can also take care of your child’s needs and wants better.
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Author: Jessica Wilson
Jessica is a professional health expert who works for some major health industry giants. She currently writes for Membersown and is dedicated to helping people learn more about health-related topics along the journey. When she’s not a health advocate, she enjoys some downtime travelling or talking with family.
