Handling tough parenting decisions – Part 1

When we really look at it, our parenting is learned on the fly. After the birth of our kids we adjust, adjust, adjust and if we’re honest we are in a completely new classroom of life.

The child looks into their parents eyes thinking they know everything! It’s really funny when you think about it.

For many of us we think we’ll get it one day and it will all fall into place. But our kids keep growing, influences on them change and of course we are not immune to change ourselves!

So how do we keep up, let alone be ahead of the game? How do we make sense of what’s required of us and operate functionally in times of change, stress and challenge?

Here’s some reference points we call anchors. Anchors are a foundational reference point that keep us on track and operating at our best no matter of the changing nature of relationships or problematic circumstances.

Anchor #1

Firstly, it’s always good to know your values as a go-to place in times of uncertainty. Companies have mission statements and whilst helpful we suggest all you really need is 3 core values from which to operate.

On our father son camps we have 2 ways of anchoring our choices. Firstly our core values are service, integrity and trust. These are invaluable when we are faced with any decision.

On top of that we have a question - ‘what’s best for the boys?’

Both these are enormously helpful and we often can arrive at the right decision in quick time.

So as a parent what are your core values? What are your family's core values?

That is worth spending some time on! Many families will have some constants like respect and support, then there will be one that is particular to them. This can be freedom, appreciation, forgiveness, humility and so on…

A simple way to do this is to google core values and explore with your partner and even your kids as to what stands out as important to you. If your kids are old enough get them to find their own core values and remind them this can change over time… or not!

This is valuable knowledge for all parents!

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we look at the next anchor which helps Parent with those tough parenting decisions next week.