Frustration

Today let's acknowledge the frustration that sometimes comes with being a parent. Sometimes there are just times when you want to rip your hair out. All of that is very, very normal. It's also a common feeling that if not dealt with can lead to all kinds of problems in all the different areas of you life.

If you don't learn to cope with your stress you are more likely to lash out due to frustration and irritability. So don't forget to take some time for yourself to relax and unwind.

I know, I know, you don't have the time to focus on yourself because you are focused on your children. Well my response to that is you can't be everything for everyone if you can't be anything for yourself. If you don't take the time to relax and unwind, you will eventually run out of gas and either not be able to be there or you will be so irritable that no one will want you to be there.

So stop the excuses and spend some time each day focusing on you. If you feel that is too much, at least commit to some time each week for right now. Schedule it if you need to. Here are some of the things I do to relax:

Exercise

Read a good book or a fun magazine

Take a relaxing bath

Spend time engaging in hobbies

Spend time with my husband

When all else fails

Now sometimes as parents we take ourselves way too seriously because the job of being a parent is a big one. However, you also have to be able to laugh. When I find myself taking it too serious I consult the Ill-Advised column over at The Stir. Whether sarcasm is your cup of tea or not, find a way to laugh.

What do you guys due to relax and take some time for yourself?