How You Can Always Embrace Any Challenge
How You Can Always Embrace Any Challenge
Adapting to parenthood's evolving changes
It should come as no surprise that parenting is an ever-evolving landscape. In other words, none of us can know it all nor can we be prepared for it all. ...How frightening, sobering, and relieving all at the same time! As soon as we think that we have it all figured out life throws us a curveball, reminding us that adaptability is very necessary in order to thrive in the role of a parent to your little(s).
As the mother to two amazing toddlers who happen to be on the autism spectrum, I know firsthand about the necessity of remaining flexible and open to sudden change. Whether it's adopting a new routine, facing an unexpected hurdle, or even meeting milestones, parenting is an experience of constant development and evolution for me.
The Easter holiday is quickly approaching us all. My mind just recently busied itself with strategizing our family's trip to the church (literally just across the street -- we can walk) to celebrate by joining in its Easter Egg Hunt for young children. In consideration of years past at the very same event when there was only one child, I concluded that we were woefully lacking in the kiddie equipment needed for the event this time. We lived and I learned this the hard way.
There were harnesses, or at the least wrist leashes1, to secure to prevent the nightmare of a child wandering off. And we also needed another travel wagon2 to replace the one we lost ages ago to be able to cart both kids around the venue easily. Well, just two days ago when prompted by these realizations so close to Easter day, I urgently put in an Amazon order for all of the gear we needed. I literally shudder when I consider what our Easter event would look like if I hadn't thought to order those items. Whew, that was a close one...
There is no doubt that the difficulty of embracing change is a topic that resonates with many of you here. It's by no means exclusive to parenting, after all. Navigating many other types of journeys means encountering twists, turns, and unexpected surprises also. So how can we embrace change and adapt to the challenges that come our way? Here are a few insights and strategies that have helped me out:
Resilience: Cultivating the quality of resilience has helped me face difficulties and bounce back from setbacks with grace and strength. Adversity is a guaranteed thing in this life, so you might as well learn to handle it as well as you can.
Self-compassion: I've learned how to not beat myself up figuratively about my missteps when they happen. I offer myself the same kindness and understanding that I would extend to a friend facing a similar situation.
Flexibility: If there is one thing I've learned, it's that things rarely go according to plan when (my) children are in the mix -- and that's okay. Staying adaptable has allowed me to better embrace the unexpected things that come my way.
Support: It takes a village to raise a child, and I quickly learned that I don't have to face parenting alone, either. This can look like friends, family, and support groups3. These sources can offer you valuable insights and encouragement.
Celebrate: Parenting is a journey and not a destination. I've adopted the practice of celebrating the progress that I've achieved, no matter how minor the degree may seem. When I just look back and consider all of the strength and resilience that I have shown along the way as a parent, I recognize that this deserves celebration.
As I venture from day-to-day, I acknowledge that life's changes are inevitable, but my growth is optional. So I choose to nurture my growth by facing hurdles as best as I can and by being adaptable. Along with developing my strength and resilience, I've found that this actually enriches my life experience. It facilitates me living a more fulfilling and even joyful parenting experience for me and my children... I can't beat that with a stick!
Now I'd love to hear from you! How do you embrace change and adapt to the challenges of parenthood? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below. I can't wait to offer you my responses.
Until next time, stay strong, stay resilient, and remember that you're never alone on this journey.
From https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TVX47KTpsc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
It’s pretty sweet. I tried it out on my youngest, and it’s very secure, even on her tiny wrist. Plus it only opens with a key!
From https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQ21S7YFpsc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
It’s super sturdy, roomy enough for two, and it moves around smoothly. It folds up nice and portable with a cover to go over it.
We have our own in-house Parent Support Group ready for your presence right here! https://www.circular.cheniece.co/s/parent-support-group
“It takes a village to raise a child, and I quickly learned that I don't have to face parenting alone, either. This can look like friends, family, and support groups3. These sources can offer you valuable insights and encouragement.” This makes the biggest difference. If you get the support then you’ll be able to be kind to yourself too. I didn’t get support which I’m sure fueled more negative self talk.