Ok, so perhaps becoming a single parent was not part of your life plan. But life is unpredictable and often times, things may not work out exactly how we may have envisioned them. Life is full of curve balls and it is up to us to learn how to maneuver around them all the the way through the finish line.
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As a single parent myself, I can tell you that it is totally “doable”. The uniqueness in the love that we feel towards our children is unexplainable. This unexplainable connection that will automatically fire up all the “mommy” and/or “daddy” modes. Becoming a parent, single or not, does not come with an instruction manual, although it would be helpful, lol. But its really not that complicated, and I can vouch for that. I can definitely relate to you with all the doubts and fears that may arise. “Will I be a good parent? Am I financially ready? Can I make it on my own?” and so many more doubts that arise. Raising children in the traditional setting of “a married household” is ideal, and I respect your opinion on the matter. But to some, this is not the ideal setting. Many reasons fall behind why we choose to be a single parent (a future topic), and if it will create a safer, healthier, happier environment for you and your child, then you have my support.
I can tell you that you need to have faith, and believe that everything will work out. Everything may feel a bit overwhelming at first, but with some time and patience, you will find a routine that works. Trial and error is part of learning, and being a parent is a life learning experience which never ends. I have heard about support groups in communities that extend help for families in need. If you find yourself in a position where you need that extra guidance, I would recommend you do an internet search in your state. There you may find counseling, housing and/or food vouchers to help you in troubled times. Thankfully, I have been blessed with a great career history and cannot elaborate on those extreme calls for help by experience, but I have crossed paths with many people who have been in that position, and there is no shame in seeking help when help is needed. Ask around and get reviews on pediatricians near you. A good pediatrician with weekend or late hours is always best. You want to think ahead and be ready for those last minute doctor calls. A pediatrician with a flexible schedule will come in handy, especially to work around your work schedule. Remember you are running a “one-man” show here. Keeping up with immunizations is extremely important in the upkeep of your healthy child.
One of the biggest expense you will incur in early childhood is Daycare. Depending on where you are located, these fees will vary drastically. I have learned that infants are charged a higher fee due to the amount of responsibilities that are involved. Lets face it, just between feeding and diapers every 2-3 hours is exhausting on its own. I understand. As your child becomes a toddler, and he/she is potty trained, you can celebrate. Hooray! your daycare fee just got lower. As you see, with time and patience, it all starts to make sense, and all the hard work you put into today, will be a lifetime of smiles and happiness.
Find Your Light: Practicing Mindfulness to Recover from Anything
“You only have control of 3 things in your life: the thoughts you think, the images you visualize, and the actions you take” – Jack Canfield
Motivation! 