How to Parent When You Are in a Bad Mood

After days or weeks of endless commutes, running errands and other infuriating issues that unfortunately accompany adulthood, many of us don̵7;t have the patience or energy to settle fights, or deal with the whining or the other issues that accompany parenthood. What you might not realize is that your sour mood is profoundly affecting your children. If you find yourself in a chronic bad mood, there are many ways to find the strength necessary to parent with patience, love and compassion.

Instructions

    • 1

      Close your eyes, take a deep breath and try to find a place of calm and serenity. If the kids are out of control, rather than taking your bad mood out on them, take a deep breath and a several-second mental vacation. After you̵7;ve calmed and centered yourself, approach the situation with a newfound sense of serenity.

    • 2

      Remind yourself of the positive aspects of your life. If you̵7;re having trouble finding the ̶0;good̶1; in your bad day, mentally list five reasons you should feel blessed instead of angry. For instance, do you have a much needed vacation coming up? Did you snag that big promotion? Are you enjoying a date night with your spouse later in the week? Focus on the positive to help banish the negative.

    • 3

      Make a promise to yourself to remain calm, no matter what your mood or how many reasons you have to lash out at others. Debbie Pincus, a licensed professional counselor, recommends that stressed-out parents make a promise to themselves to set a good example for their kids by remaining calm in the face of stress. It might not work every time, but when you̵7;re ready to explode, just remind yourself you can set a positive example for your children by remaining calm.

    • 4

      Spend a few minutes alone. If you̵7;re truly struggling, there̵7;s no shame in asking a friend, family member or your spouse to step in. During this precious alone time, do anything you find relaxing. Take a walk, enjoy a bubble bath or simply spend a few quiet moments sipping coffee. Once you̵7;ve regained your composure, engage your children with a more positive outlook on life.

    • 5

      Step away from any unnecessary chores or responsibilities. For instance, if you̵7;re already in a foul mood and the kids are screaming for dinner, order a pizza instead of slaving over a hot stove when you̵7;re already hot under the collar. If the dishes are dirty, leave them until tomorrow. You̵7;re not a failure if you give yourself a break for the sake of keeping your cool.

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