Parenting worries: tools you need now

Before becoming a mom, aside from a little *healthy* OCD, I was pretty carefree. I didn’t worry about much. I took calculated risks.

Looking back and believe I lived life to the fullest while still being responsible.

Now, I have a confession to make. I have so many parenting worries as a mom now, I’ve resorted to seeking professional therapy.

But, wait. Why does that sound so negative?  Keep reading below or PIN it to read later.

When we are feeling physically sick, we see a medical doctor. We do our best to take care of our bodies on the inside and outside so why is it we are embarrassed when our mind is hurting?

I don’t know why getting mental help is so taboo, but I want SHOUT FROM THE ROOFTOP that it shouldn’t be.

Taking care of your mental health is equally, if not more important than, going to the doctor when you’re physically sick. So many illnesses steam from stress. I don’t have the qualifications to speak on how that works nor is that why I’m talking to you right now.

I didn’t know parenting worries were a thing

As I mentioned earlier, before becoming a parent, I was fearless. I wasn’t concerned about much when it came to taking specific risks that I am worried about today, as a mom.

My worries now include extreme fear of ticks, dying and the impact that would have on my daughter, my daughter getting seriously ill, am I spending enough quality time with my daughter, man… the list goes on and on.

Now. Let’s get to the good news!

If you don’t read any further, I encourage you to grab the free gratitude planner I have available for you. As I mentioned before, I’m working with a professional therapist who has added immense value to my worry toolbox and how to manage the butterflies that uninvitedly enter my tummy from time-to-time. Writing down something you’re thankful for each day.

How to Free Yourself from These Parenting Worries

Anxiety and worry can take over your life if you allow it to. Whether we like it or not, constant stress and worry can physically make us sick. The good news is that there are ways to help alleviate anxiety.

The first step is identifying the “what.”

What is the stress? Is it something you can change? Is it something you have no control over? By determining the root of your anxiety, you can better understand how you can overcome it; even the parenting worries.

For example, if you’re feeling anxious about losing your job and being unable to provide for your family, you can change this worry. You can work harder to prove that you’re an indispensable part of the team or you can start searching for a new job. Taking action is the surest way to defeat anxiety.

The truth is, there are plenty of situations in your life that you can change with some effort. Parenting worries are no different. For example, if you’re concerned about your weight, you can change it! You already know it takes a healthy diet coupled with regular exercise. Little by little, your weight will melt away, and your health will improve.

By determining the root of your anxieties, and developing ways to turn them into something positive, you can overcome them.

Here are some tips and techniques to help you manage your anxiety:

1. Know your worries. Write down exactly what’s causing your anxiety, then note down ways you can change the outcome. Knowing what you’re up against is the key to feeling better about yourself and your current situation.
2. Breathe. Once you’ve pinpointed the things you need to change, sit back and take a breath. This form of relaxation can help you calm your racing heart and give you peace of mind. Rapid breathing from anxiety can lead you to a panic attack. Don’t let it get that far. Breathe deeply and slowly as soon as you feel yourself become worried or anxious.
3. Visualize. Perhaps one of the most effective ways to overcome anxiety is the technique of visualization. Choose a quiet space in your home, light some candles, and close your eyes. Imagine yourself in your ideal situation. Feel how calm you are and visualize letting go of your worries. Think about how happy you’ll be once your source of stress has been diminished.
4. Use positive affirmations. When things get tough and you feel yourself losing control, repeat a positive statement over and over in your head. For example, if you’re in need of a job, you can repeat something like: “I am a valuable and hardworking individual who is worthy of a fulfilling new opportunity!” Reaffirming positive thoughts repeatedly can help you believe that anything is possible. The power of the mind is endless.
5. Diet and exercise. Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising can physically help you handle stress and anxiety. The stronger the body is, the stronger the mind is. It’s a fact: if you abuse your body with junk foods or drugs and alcohol, your body and mind will react negatively. Take care of your body, and it will help take care of your worries.
6. Seek support. Talk to someone who has been in the same situation. Reaching out to friends and family or seeking professional help can do wonders to help you get rid of your anxiety. Once you’ve seen that someone else has gone through and overcome what you’re experiencing, it gives you great hope that you, too, can do the same. Once you’ve seen that someone else has gone through and overcome what you’re experiencing, it gives you great hope that you, too, can do the same.

Anxieties are a part of everyday life. How you choose to manage them is what makes the difference. Stop letting fear control you. Take the reins and let anxiety and worries know that you are the one in the driver’s seat of your life.