When To Prioritise Your Needs As A Parent

In many situations, our kids come first. However, there are still times as a parent when you need to put your own needs first. Failing to prioritise your needs could lead to you becoming unhappy and possibly ill, which will affect the care you’re able to provide for your kids. Below are just a few times when you should prioritise your needs as a parent. 

You’re sleep-deprived

Many parents (especially parents with young kids) don’t get enough sleep. Regularly, getting too little sleep will not just make you cranky and exhausted, but could put you at risk of developing health problems. If you’re seriously sleep deprived, make sure to find time to catch up on sleep – even if it means getting someone to babysit your kids while you have a nap.

You’ve got no personal goals

Before having kids, many of us have personal goals such as wanting to achieve a certain career, develop hobby skills, travel or complete certain physical challenges. Becoming a parent can result in less time to dedicate to these personal goals, but you shouldn’t give them up altogether. You need to have a personal drive beyond being a parent – having personal goals can be inspiring to your kids and will make you feel more fulfilled, so try to find time to chase these goals. You may even be able to achieve certain goals with your kids such as exercising with your kids or travelling with your kids.

You’ve got a health concern

If you’re worried about your health, it’s important that you find time to diagnose and treat any problems. This includes not ignoring pains and not skipping doctor’s appointments. If you’re ill, you won’t be able to give your child the care they need, so find the time to see a doctor and make sure that you’re giving yourself time to recover (make sure that a partner or family member can help look after the kids if you need rest).

You’re in a toxic job/relationship

Some of us will stay in a toxic job just to support our family or try to stay in a toxic relationship for the sake of our kids. Being trapped in a job or relationship that is making you unhappy can be mentally and physically draining. You could become depressed or experience burnout, which will ultimately affect your ability to look after your kids. Know when to quit your job or seek out divorce solicitors for the sake of your own happiness. You and your kids will be better for it in the long run. 

You feel socially isolated

It’s important to find time to socialise with friends. Lack of social interaction will make you lonely and depressed. Plan activities and meetups with friends that are kid-friendly so that you can see your friends and look after your kids. Don’t feel guilty treating yourself to the occasional night out or day out with friends without your kids either – ask someone to babysit your kids in advance. 

You have no time to yourself

Just as it’s important to have social interaction, it’s also important to have time to yourself (including without kids). Schedule time for yourself, whether it’s engaging in solo hobbies like reading or taking a long bath.