You are already a parent before you become a parent. Being a parent comes with an attitude, a presence, an evolution and a becoming. No matter how some may try to ignore the state of parenthood for what it is, you can’t simply live the same way when you were single when you become a parent. That is if you want to be a great parent for your kids. And since your kids will deserve the best from you, here are some changes you have to make if you want to become a parent.
1. You have to become more tolerant
Tolerance means knowing that when your child wants something they deserve you have to be flexible enough to meet with their desires. Sometimes what your child will want may not be something you can or you would want to give but you simply have to tolerate their nuances and give it to them.
2. You have to be more organized
Being single or not having a child yet may mean you have a lot of free time to do what appeals to you, but when a child comes to the stage, you just have to be better organized with your time. What best time to prepare for the job than now.
3. You have to be more productive
Fatherhood or motherhood is a full time job. Every other thing comes in between. And when you have so much hovering you over you, you really need to learn how to make the most of everything you do, from setting the right example to providing for your kids financial needs and more.
4. You have to be supportive
Being a parent could be a challenge. Especially if it is something you are new to. Try and learn how to be supportive. Your significant other will need this when you are tending for the baby. And even if it is just you, you have to be supportive of any other person that will be willing to provide assistance to your raising a baby.
5. You have to be appreciative
There are challenges with being a parent. And sometimes it is so easy to ignore the gift and start looking at the obstacles. Now that you are not yet a parent, try and focus on appreciating the gifts of responsibility and engagement you have.
6. You have to be relationally connected
To be a better and a more successful parent depends on how connected you are to your spouse or friends. Being able to be connected with others means you can benefit from these connections and infuse them in the relationship with you and your child/children.
7. You have to be able to manage your emotions
If you are having issues with anger, anxiety or depression it is important you start working on these things before you have kids. Your ability to be able to regulate your emotions determines how less needy you are on others or how your emotions are triggered by other people.
8. You have to be responsible
Responsibility means taking charge. When you become a parent you will have to take charge of your financial, spiritual, emotional, physical and moral growth. It is important for you to be more responsible for these things before you become a parent.
9. You have to take care of your health
You are the vehicle to your child’s success in life. You have to make sure your health whether spiritual, mental, emotional or physical is in the right shape. You do not want to constantly offer your kids resentment, anger and criticism.
10. You have to be consistent
You have to show stability. Stability and adaptability may correlate but what stability offers you is a direction, purpose and an assurance. To be a parent you have to be willing to do things consistently and stay in line with doing these things to make your kids happy.
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