Single parent life lessons can look simple to those who are in stable monogamous relationships but single parenting is one of the bravest things one can do. I feel like one can feel vulnerable more often than not. From constant heartbreak to finding yourself alone, more often than not, parenting your child alone without assistance can teach you so much. For me, Single Parenting is no cake either, especially with zero help from the paternal side. Today, I will share my experience and life lessons with everyone. All the below mentioned. Lessons were learned the hard way, but if my work could better the life of even one person, I’d take it as a win. Keep reading, as all the lessons might help you make sound decisions in life.
You are on your own:
One of the saddest things about parenting alone is that you are on your own. Besides temporary comfort, you are alone in the battles. All the decisions and steps are done on your accountability. This state keeps you in a state of flight and fright 24/7, causing fatigue and mental strain. But there are two pictures to every story. Although it might strain you at times, being independent liberates your soul, too. The more self-sufficient you are, the better human you will turn out to be.
Taking a step back to rethink doesn’t make you a wrong person:
Another good thing I learned from my circumstances is that taking a step back to reevaluate your decision is better than fighting meaningless fights. The more you indulge in a fight, the worse it will be for your mental health. Always think it through before replying and making a decision in life. Moreover, it is also essential that you refrain from bringing emotions into life decisions as it can also ruin your decision-making abilities. Ensure better childhood support through mindful decisions.
Create your happiness:
Saving your peace of mind can become a hassle as you age. You will be surrounded by people doing their best to ruin little peace. I would advise you to shorten your circle and create memorable moments with the kids. You are the sole owner of your happiness, and if you are not happy, the whole dynamic of your house is almost ruined. Take your kids on special trips and find peace and calmness in little moments of joy. Kids have the magic of making us extremely happy in their presence, so enjoy them before they grow up and move on to different voyages in life.
Loneliness is not at all your enemy:
They say that the happy people are the ones who are on their own. The privilege of sustaining your own and creating your life is something many of us look forward to. Avoid gatherings and events where your flaws are picked out and your loved ones question your decision-making abilities. Befriend being lonely as it will help you secure your peace of mind. The road to vulnerability is very short when you are a single-functioning parent; therefore, never feel down when you are alone. Create help for single mothers with kind gestures as they are probably going through a lot.
We are all miserable and broken:
While growing up, I always thought that everyone else in my circle was in the best shape and forms of life and living the fiesta of a life. But as soon as I shifted to my empathetic phase, I realized it was wrong. Each one of us is going through a past trauma and battling. Silent war within. Some are combatting a disease; others cannot find love, and others feel lost. If your issues overwhelm you, always know you are not alone. Therefore, you must make the lives of people around you easy with your kindness. Always listen to others, as it may take away so much of their pain effortlessly.
Setting boundaries will save you from a lot of chaos(single parent life lessons):
Be it the baby daddy or mama or a toxic relative, setting boundaries will redefine your worth in the eyes of the other person. Show them what terms you can stand and what you don’t so that no one can belittle you.
Navigating both positive and negative emotions is your key to success.
Before getting extremely angry over a patty issue, you must navigate your emotions and know how to react correctly. The life rule is golden for the single parent as their kids can easily drive them crazy. Be it a tantrum or a curse word, it is essential that you evaluate your emotions before giving any reaction.
Little things matter the most to tiny human beings:
You can make your kids happy without putting too much effort. You can do the bare minimum, and it will be enough to win your child’s heart. Take them to the ice cream Parlor or stroll with them in the park, and your kids will appreciate it for an extended period. Keep in mind that the lives of kids are not as complicated as ours, and they love tiny gestures more. You don’t have to build an empire for your kids right after divorce. Instead, pick your own pace and just be there for the kids. It might not look important initially, but your kids will learn to appreciate it with time.
The sooner you exit, the better:
Don’t wait to completely ruin your mind with the marriage before te you decide to quit forever. I have known women who are stuck in a dead-end relationship with no love just because they are too afraid to exit. My love, it is essential that you know the importance of your sanity and when to stand up for yourself. If your relationship is suffocating and nothing seems to work, the sooner you leave, the better it will be for you and the children involved in the marriage. it is one of the most important single parent life lessons I learned but also one that made the most impact in my life.
Be aware of your finances.
One of the most scary things about divorce is managing my finances. I have always been wrong with money due to my overspending nature; if I still think about this, I am still terrible with my finances, but I am trying to navigate it with a positive mindset.