Dear Me,
It’s me again—the one knee-deep in the chaos of parenting, constantly answering “why” and exhausted from keeping up with two little ones. I know you find it hard to stay awake past 9 p.m. while they seem energized until 10. So, I’m writing this to remind you of the love you have for your stubborn little girl—even when the going gets tough.
Here are some important reminders to keep you grounded during challenging moments:
- She’s a Mini-You: Remember, that fierce stubbornness comes straight from you. You’ve always been opinionated and strong-willed, just like her. Take a step back and recognize that her behavior is a reflection of your own traits.
- Avoid Direct Commands: If you tell her to avoid something, chances are she’ll do the exact opposite. Instead, gently steer her without being too directive, and enjoy the unpredictability that comes with it.
- Support, Don’t Discourage: Your role is to lift her spirits. The world will challenge her enough, and she’s likely her own toughest critic. Teach her that life is a journey of learning, not a competition. Remind her that even experts once started as beginners.
- Introduce Role Models: As she grows, she might find you a bit lame during her teenage years. Encourage her to look up to other women—this will help her gain different perspectives. For example, recommend literature like Anne of Green Gables; she’ll probably love it!
- Learn from Her: Despite your life experience, she has a unique perspective that can teach you a lot. Embrace the lessons she offers; they might surprise you.
- Set Expectations: Sometimes, pushing her to try new things is necessary for her growth. Though she may resist at first, one day she’ll appreciate the encouragement in areas like sports, academics, and family traditions.
- Give Her Room: Allow her to navigate challenges independently. She’s capable and will find her solutions. Trust her instincts—sometimes, silence is golden.
- Lighten the Mood: If tensions run high, a silly joke can work wonders. There’s something in our DNA that makes us chuckle at a good fart joke. It can diffuse any situation.
- Choose Kindness: Remember, there are times when frustration makes you less than pleasant. Do you want to be remembered as harsh? Strive to be kind, even when it’s tough.
Yours in this wild ride of motherhood,
Your more seasoned self
For more insights into family life, check out our other blogs, like the one on at-home insemination kits, which can be found here. And if you’re interested in pregnancy nutrition, visit this authority on diet during pregnancy. For additional resources on infertility, Mount Sinai offers a wealth of information, which you can find here.
In summary, parenting a strong-willed child is no easy feat, but by embracing your similarities, supporting her growth, and fostering independence, you can create lasting memories. Remember to inject humor and kindness into your interactions to help navigate the challenging moments.