Feb 22 2013

Mom Advice That’s Also Good For Dad

From Mom365 comes some good advice about how to be a “Calm and Happy Mom.” Dads can use these tips as well.

DaddyTips—Thoughts on Dadding

(Full disclosure — I write for Mom365 periodically; here’s an example.)

The third item on the list, “Be Grateful,” is something that I personally want to spend more time on. The author, Valerie Reiss, suggests that a good way to practice gratitude is to “Every day, name three things you’re thankful for; it’s an instant joy boost.” Sounds good to me.

This particular piece of advice is perfect for parents of all genders, dads as well as moms. Most people know that parenting can be frustrating at times. What is less often discussed is how dealing with kids on a daily basis can distract you from other parts of your life. Children, especially young ones, require a lot of attention. It is very easy to get caught up in the details of dirty diapers and daily dinners. That can lead to forgetting how good life is and how lucky you are.

Lest you think gratitude isn’t cool, a certain band called The Beastie Boys would disagree with you.

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdJ5e70Q8mw]

So would Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine. Also me.

Other items on the list include “Dance” (this may not be for everyone but I’ll give it a shot), “Create” (defined here as making something, “even a doodle”), and drinking lots of water, which is healthy and forces you to take a trip to the bathroom more often. Sometimes that counts as a parenting break.

Click the link below for the full list.

10 Ways to Be a Calm & Happy Mom – Mom365.com