Let’s face it – parenting is a wild ride, and sometimes it feels like our homes are spinning out of control. If you’ve ever felt like your life is more chaos than calm, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, a lot of parenting advice starts with the end in mind, and doesn’t take into account your immediate, current reality. It’s often hard to access the parenting success you’ve received from others when a situation is heightened, often involving a lot of negative emotions.
We had the privilege of interviewing Dayna Abraham, author of “Calm the Chaos”, and she shared her roadmap for parenting success. We loved how Dayna’s roadmap starts with steps that will give you the tools to truly make a connection and problem solve for future issues that will inevitably arise. Because we all know, there’s never a dull moment in parenting!
It’s Okay to Embrace the Chaos
First and foremost, remember that it’s perfectly okay to embrace the chaos. Parenting is not a picture-perfect Pinterest board. It’s more like a messy masterpiece in the making. So cut yourself some slack and know that it’s okay if things get a little crazy from time to time.
In the midst of chaos, there are often hidden gems of joy. Look for those silver linings. Maybe it’s a shared laugh during a food fight in the kitchen, or perhaps it’s the cuddles after a tantrum has subsided. These little moments of connection and love are what make it all worthwhile and will help with parenting success.
Create Simple Routines
While chaos is a part of parenting, a touch of routine can work wonders. Simple daily routines can help provide a sense of stability amidst the storm. It might be as basic as regular mealtimes, bedtime stories, or family game nights. Find what works for your family, and stick to it when you can.
One thing Dayna mentions in her interview is building habits into your day that can alleviate stress, which will then help you show up better when the chaos presents itself. For some parents, that may include establishing a morning routine to start your day off on the right foot.
Remember, it’s okay to have moments of chaos in your home. In fact, it’s more than okay; it’s expected. Instead of trying to eliminate the chaos, let’s learn to navigate it with grace, humor, and a whole lot of love. Embrace the wild ride of parenting, and you’ll find that in the midst of the storm, there’s a beautiful, messy, and loving family that you wouldn’t trade for anything in the world.