I’ve been writing about conscious parenting for about a year now. My own journey as a single mother of two adolescent boys continues to be one of adventure and discovery.
Most days are a combination of grace-filled moments, when I feel a soul-deep connection with my children… and minutes of absolute terror. Can I possibly be doing this right? Or am I damaging my children beyond the point of repair?
Let’s take a little time this week, to reflect on our journey together. Here are my “Top 10” favorite columns (and lessons) on conscious parenting.
1. Make Your Parenting Choices on Purpose.
At its core, conscious parenting is about being intentional. What do you really want your child to learn from you? Jumpstart your intentions for your children with Seven Things Worth Teaching Our Children – and Remembering Ourselves – in 2009.
2. Build and Nourish a Deep Connection with Your Child.
Our children need our attention, as well as our intention. Read more about the importance of connecting with your child in How to Raise Loving, Cooperative Children.
3. Live in the Moment.
It is easy to spend your energies worrying about the past or the future. Always remember that the present moment is where you can make a difference in the life of your child… or your own. Breathe. Meditate. Practice being present, no matter what is going on around you. Just for kicks, read Deepak Chopra and My Washing Machine.
4. Bring the Best of Yourself to the Job of Parenting.
Let’s face it, life is stressful. Sacrificing your own health and happiness does not make anyone’s life better. Your children need your very best… you need to make sure it is available to them. Find tips for your own self-care regime in It’s All About You!
5. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.
This could also be titled, “pick your battles.” Yes, there will be times when your children are annoying, maddening and ridiculous. That doesn’t mean that you have to join them. Chances are good that you’ve already been there, anyway… take a trip down memory lane in A Letter of Apology to My Parents, Whom I Love and Adore.
6. Be Grateful, Always.
Isn’t life an amazing journey? When you take a moment to be still, and to really look at them, don’t you just plain adore your children? Don’t forget to give thanks, each and every day. If you need some help to get into the mood, try A Season of Thanks and Giving.
7. Be Intentional, Part 2.
Teach your children about their own powers of conscious creation. Become partners in creating an amazing life for your family. Try, Help! My Kids are Using the Law of Attraction to Control My Life!
8. Hang In There.
When the going gets tough, conscious parents hunker down and keep trying. Trust that there is a beautiful, Divine plan for you and your children. When you are really struggling, try 7 Ways to Make Peace with Your Child.
9. To Be a Better Parent, Be a Better (Imperfect) Person.
We all need to keep working on ourselves… would you agree that we are perhaps, still just a tad less than perfect? This is a good thing! It means we can relate to our children in all their struggles and growing pains. Have you used these 5 Powerful Phrases with your child today?
10. Hold on Tight, Then Let Them Fly.
In the end, conscious parenting might just be about giving our children the strength to leave us. Not forever – but at least for college! Give your children a strong foundation that will last a lifetime. See Roots and Wings: How to Make Your Children Feel at Home in the Universe.
Meg: your tips are priceless. Your "7 things worth teaching our children" especially was a gem!