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Parenting, simply put, is a lot. When you set out to have a family you think you know what it will take, but the truth is that you cannot possibly understand all the ways that having a family will change and influence your life until you are in the thick of it. These facts are not meant to be scare tactics either. Rather informative tidbits to help you understand that part of parenting is also about being the best version of yourself.
Too often parents assume that putting their kids first means that anything else doesn’t matter but the truth is that your kids are constantly watching and listening. They are paying attention to everything you are doing whether either of you realize it or not. Below are a few ways that you can work on yourself in order to be a great role model for your kids.
Responsibly Manage Your Finances
Being on top of your money management can mean that you are not only able to financially provide for your kids, but also that you have the skills needed to use money as a tool and not allow it to be a major stressor. Of course, this will fluctuate. Some seasons of life will come with financial worries and that’s just life. But if you create a budget that is realistic and dedicate yourself to living by it, you can show your kids that while money isn’t everything, it is important, and how you handle it matters.
If you struggle with the budgeting aspect in general, that might be a sign that you need to re-work your monthly expenses. Sometimes people spend money on fixed things mindlessly when in reality there are adjustments that could be made that result in significant savings. Student loans are a common example. So many people have student debt and just think that since the total amount owed is so large they have no option but to just pay the monthly payments as is until the debt is gone. But refinancing your loans can result in lower payments that will help with your monthly budget.
In addition, you can solicit an easy process completed electronically to shop for personalized rates. This means that managing this obligation does not have to put a strain on your time. It is not just your student loans that can benefit. Personal loans, home and auto insurance, and life insurance can all be re-worked online through this process as well. It might shock you to see how much extra money you are spending each month simply because you don’t know any better.
Have a Strong Work Ethic
You are the first opportunity that your kids have to learn about creating a professional life. They watch you come and go from work every day and understand that you have a job, but what are you showing them about what it means to be dedicated to that part of your life? The importance of showing your kids a good work ethic is not often discussed but it is a great opportunity to teach them from an early age the benefits of having one.
A strong work ethic will not only teach them how to one day be a good employee. It will also encourage independence, responsibility, passion, and people skills within your child. You can start when they are young with experiences that are age and education level appropriate. If your work allows it, consider allowing them to come to the office with you one day. Here they will be able to watch you in your own work environment and see you model all the lessons you speak to them. Part of being a good role model is showing actionable evidence of the things you verbally explain.
Prioritize Health and Wellness
Taking care of your mind, body, and soul is a base-level necessity. In order to parent effectively you have to be your healthiest self. Kids are perceptive and they can tell when you are off your game. Being a parent is exhausting and that is why you need to make it a priority to fuel your body properly, to get through the times when energy and mental capacity are low.
Some things that you can do to make sure that you are in fight form are eating a healthy diet, practicing daily movement of some kind, and maintaining your adult personal relationships. Let your kids see that you go to the gym, explain to them why it is important to you. Share with them the foods that you eat to make sure that you feel your best every day. Although it can be difficult to leave them behind, allow them to observe you taking time out to nurture your adult relationships. What you are essentially showing them is that a mindful and well-rounded existence is an ideal way to live and by holding yourself to that standard you are encouraging them to grow and learn to do the same.
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Brought to you by Justin Weinger.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
