Okay, another serious one – but an important one!
As parents, the focus is usually the children – I guess the function is in the name:
Parent, /ˈpɛːrənt/ noun
- a person’s father or mother.
The title infers the function – but somehow, we seem to forget ourselves in the equation of life, and self-care takes a backseat. One of the major ways to self-care (for free) is affirmations too!
Affirmations are also impactful to us, as parents because positive affirmations work by replacing negative thought patterns with healthier ways of thinking, they can have a positive impact on the brain and body.
When we as parents affirm their individual core values and reinforce these thoughts by saying them aloud, these mantras encourage productive responses to challenging situations. These affirmations improve mental health, reduced stress, and enhanced self-esteem.
Also read: Do Affirmations (for your child) Really Work?
Before we go on, it’s important to realise that affirmations work best when we reflect upon and remind ourselves of all the evidence we have that our new belief is true. Our brains try very hard to hold onto our old beliefs – so we have to be intentional when it comes to changing them.
“Affirmations can also help parents model positive mental health practices for their children and strengthen the parent-child connection.”
They also must be accompanied by actions: Affirmations are most effective when accompanied by intentional actions and behaviours that are aligned with your goals. Try setting yourself small goals that support your new affirmation, you can check out our Goal-Setting guidance templates HERE.
TIP: “During difficult situations: Use affirmations to provide reassurance and encouragement during moments of stress, conflict, or uncertainty. Difficult parenting moments are made more difficult by our own negative self-talk – when we beat ourselves up or tell ourselves it’s too hard, or we’re failing, we increase our stress and decrease the likelihood that we will manage a situation calmly.” – Sarah Conway, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist.
Here are some quick affirmations at your fingertips:
“I create a nurturing and supportive environment where my children feel loved, valued, and accepted.”
“I am grateful for the precious moments I share with my children, cherishing each milestone and memory.”
“I lead by example, embodying the values of kindness, empathy, and resilience for my children to emulate.”
For more affirmations and even a printout that you can put on your desk – we’ve got you! Click on the link HERE.
Oh yeah, one more thing: you’re doing great!
Keep being intentional.
x
