It’s a crazy time we live in and things aren’t always easy. Especially for single parents. You’re often the sole provider for your household as well as making sure everybody else is Ok. Sometimes it can be easy to forget about looking after yourself. In this article, I am going to discuss coping strategies and ways to reduce single-parent stress.
Reducing Single-parent Stress
Talk
Don’t be afraid to speak to others about your struggles and even your wins. Ask for help when you need it. Don’t feel like you have to be alone. People will only help you if they know it’s needed.
Be yourself
Try not to worry about how others perceive you. Due to pressures from things like social media, single parents can feel like they get judged. But the truth is, everyone is trying to make their own way through life. Save yourself the stress. Don’t create pressure which isn’t already there.
Make time for yourself
Enjoy the evening’s peace once the kids have gone to bed. Take time to appreciate when they’re with your ex-partner or family. Making arrangements with other single parents is a great way to reduce stress, get out of the house and socialise. You must find a way to make time for yourself.
Seek help
Not everybody is comfortable speaking with friends and family about their issues. If this is you, then don’t be afraid to seek help from a counsellor. It’s a great opportunity to speak with someone who isn’t involved in your situation. Don’t see this as a sign of weakness. The majority of successful people have coaches, mentors and counsellors because they understand the importance of seeking help for life’s stresses.
Clear your mind
Do you often have thoughts, worries and ideas swimming around in your head? Offload the burden by writing them down. This could be a to-do list for the day after. You can even brain dump your thoughts, tear up the paper and never think of them again. This is a great way to clear your mind and begin to relieve the stress of coping with being a single parent.
Single-parent groups
Don’t be shy when it comes to parent groups. This is a great way to avoid feeling isolated. It will give you a chance to speak with people who are going through the same experiences as you. If you have young children, it’s also a chance for them to socialise and develop. Friends and family can be great. But having people to speak to who share your experiences is invaluable.
Have a routine
You know having a solid routine helps children with their development. But it will also help you to make time for yourself. Letting children stay up late might seem like an easy option. But what you’re actually doing is giving up your alone time. A chance to let yourself relax or even take an hour or so to work on personal development. Whether it be health and fitness, learning a new skill or relaxing. Having a solid routine is as much about you as it is about the children.
Extra help
Sometimes the things we’ve discussed so far are easier said than done. Sometimes you can feel overwhelmed and that’s Ok. It’s not always going to be plain sailing. Charities such as Gingerbread.org.uk are there for you in such situations. It’s also a great place to find resources and meet other single parents who may be going through the same stress that you are.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be afraid to talk to others. Whether it’s friends and family, other single parents or a professional. There’s no shame in sharing your issues, seeking advice or taking time out to socialise. Use routine to give yourself time to spend on you. Clear your mind and relax, you’ve got this.
If you would like further guidance then contact me at sonal@sonaldave.com
Learn more at www.sonaldave.com and watch my videos at https://www.youtube.com/c/SonalDave68/
I look forward to hearing from you.
