I am really struggling with this thought/question.
I remember being so happy as a child on the rare occasion I had a friend stay over, because my Mum & Dad were nice to me.
Now, as a mother myself, when my children have friends over I find myself biting my tongue, letting little things slide & actually taking the time to stop & listen... all because someone else is watching.
I don't like that about myself & would very much like to change it (I remember how it felt).. I'd just like to know if anyone else feels like this & how they manage to remain present ALL the time?
3 Replies
I don't think there is a parent in the world who is present all the time. But doesn't mean we can't improve :)
I once asked gentle parent advocate pinky mckay how to stay calmer and essentially be a nicer parent.
she suggested (among other things) that i should go out and be in public more because it's almost human nature to be calmer and nicer when people are around. She also suggested to think about the times.i bit my lip or let things go and assess why i would loose my cool about it in private if it's not something to worry about in public? Is it a control issue? Was i just letting my frustration getting the better Of me? Was i not taking the time to think before i reacted?
Basically what you're doing is normal But a bit of self assessment will help you here.
No advice but everyone always said my mum was awesome and really nice...my mum is a crazy bitch who use to beat me with a ruler when I disagreed with her