
Tip #1 Work on Perspective
A shift in perspective can totally change your demeanor. Here’s one way to make that shift. Take whatever it is that is in front of you now and throw it out 20-30 years. Then ask yourself: How important will it be then?
Will it be important in 20-30 years if your child played second base instead of first like they want? Will it be important in 20-30 years if your child played half the game, instead of 3/4?
I think the answer to those questions is a resounding NO.
Tip #2 Create Margin
If you have no margin, you are probably exhausted and if you’re exhausted it becomes harder to counterbalance strong emotions.
If you are struggling to figure out how to find margin, Michael Hyatt does an excellent job of explaining the process in his article How to Create More Margin in Your Life.
Tip #3 Take Good Care of Yourself
Creating margin is the first step to taking good care of yourself, but real self-care goes further. It includes eating properly, getting enough sleep, exercising, building your own support system, and looking for ways to grow and learn.
I know what you’re thinking: I don’t have time! But you cannot be the parents you really want to be if you don’t take time to invest in yourselves. You tell your athlete that they must take time to practice extra and work out if they want to reach their athletic goals. In the same way, parents must allocate time to take care of themselves if they want to reach their parenting goals.
(If you are at a loss for how to do this, please let me help! I’m a parenting coach and I’d love to offer a free 30-minute introductory coaching call. Click here to learn more.)
I want to add that not all emotions should be questioned or dismissed. If you’re angry about something that threatens your child’s safety or well being, then let that anger prompt you to do whatever is necessary.
As parents, it’s important to remember that you should set an example of handing your emotions instead of letting your emotions handle you. This is a lesson your child can take into the game as well.
Learn how you can raise a champion!