No one denies that becoming a single dad is hard. Here are tips from other single dads that could help make the transition easier.
As a single dad, you may find yourself struggling to meet your many responsibilities. But, by learning from strategies crafted by others who have been in your position and seen it all, your position, you can achieve a life of enjoyment and fulfillment for both you and your children. It may seem tough and at times you may worry for your child’s future but there is proof that single parents can definitely raise their children well . Some great examples of children raised by single parents include Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and more. There are many more similar success stories that are proof that single parenthood is manageable and can definitely be successful.
There might be bumps in the road ahead but there are simple methods that many use to create that ideal life for their family. This article, will outline several tips for becoming a successful single father.
Work With Your Employer to Create a Suitable Work Schedule
It’s difficult to become a successful single parent to your child when your working responsibilities take over your life. But it’s important to strike the optimal work-personal life balance. Single parents can work with their companies to build a working schedule that suits their needs. For example, you might ask if you could come in to work a few hours earlier so that you can leave earlier to pick up your children from school. You should also look into work from home options. Express your needs to your employer and tell them you’re a single parent.
Try to Remain Calm in Challenging Circumstances
You have to wake up early in the morning, spend your days working hard at your job and then spend time taking care of your children in the evening. It’s the type of schedule that could test anyone’s nerves – but remaining calm in front of your children will help keep everyone happy. Every one of us requires a sense of release for the emotions we build up inside of us. But it’s important to find the appropriate mechanism for releasing these emotions.
Speak with friends or family members on a regular basis. You could also start this process by keeping a diary and writing about your thoughts and feelings.
Build a Support Team and Ask for Help
Being a single dad can lead to feelings of isolation. No matter how strong you are and how much you’ve achieved to date, you won’t be able to go through the entire single parenting process alone.
You’ll need a support structure. This structure could include others within the local neighborhood. Speak with other parents in the area about creating an evening activity group. Whether it’s a book club or a supper club where you share meal ideas with one another, you’ll find there are others in your area you can lean on for support. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when required. Being a single parent can get tough at times and a little help goes a long way.
Visitation Rights and Schedule
Based on what was decided during your trial with the help of your lawyer on visitation rights for your ex, make a schedule for your child visiting the other parent so co-parenting becomes smoother and more efficient. This way you always know when your child will be visiting your former partner. Try your best to make it work out and don’t stress over things that are not in your control. You cannot force the other parent to take out time for the child. Those are the other parents issues and not yours. Focus on how you can become the best parent possible.
Set Goals for Yourself
In developing your lifestyle as a single parent, it’s important to move forward. By setting specific objectives on a day-to-day basis, you can build a schedule that becomes a foundation for success in the future.
Whether the goal is a long-term objective, such as going back to school, or a short-term goal such as writing in a journal twice a week, building this type of schedule will help you improve your life. By taking care of yourself, you’re then better able to take care of your children and meet their needs on a long-term basis.
Don’t Criticize Your Ex
If you are a single dad due to divorce, do not criticize your ex. Children are vulnerable and naive. Do not criticize the gender of the other parent as well. Since the child lives with you, his/her father, do not criticize his/her mother and women in general. It is important for you to show your child that they are surrounded by good women. Take the example of close aunt or grandmother
Be Prepared for the Short-Term and Long-Term Future
Being a single parent means being able to predict when your child might have a need in the short-term or long-term future. For example, on days when you’ll be spending time with the child at a restaurant, you might bring their favorite toys and a few snacks to keep them happy and entertained. It’s also important to prepare for the long-term future.
For example, you might take an hour out of the week to teach children on the importance of reading. This could then ensure the child is ready for when school begins and will help strengthen their understanding of outdoor signs and other forms of communication they encounter. It’s a commitment to preparation that can help single parents reduce their stress levels while raising happy children.
Have Fun!
Probably the most simple yet important tip when it comes to parenting of any sort. Have fun with your child and spend quality time together. Visit the library, make a trip to the science centre, take a walk in the park or go watch a movie. Indulging in such activities will strengthen your bond and take your Childs mind off the fact that the mother is not in the picture.
Successful Parenting Begins with Personal Comfort
By understanding your own personal needs and building your relationship with your child, you can become the ideal single parent. Creating the balance between your own life as an adult and a parent can be difficult, but it’s been proven possible by many millions of men and women across the country. Schedule some kid free time for yourself from time to time. When you are happy and relaxed you can keep your kids happy and cater to their needs.
Just remember to:
Create the Optimal Work-Life Balance to Reduce Outside Sources of Stress
Keep Your Calm By Finding an Outlet for Emotions
Build a Support Structure of Friends and Family
Set Clear Goals for both the Short and Long Term
Commit to Preparation for Future Events
There is no easy path to becoming a successful single parent. It will take hard work and require sacrifices. But millions have been down the path before and come out as successful and well-grounded individuals with strong families.
Photo: Jeffrey/Flickr
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