When staying calm feels hard - tips for parenting on tough days.

Reader,

I'm checking in this weekend to share some thoughts from my heart - and a new video about parenting under pressure.

Between the day-to-day life stressors, the upcoming holiday hustle, and now the wave of emotions after the US election, I've been finding it hard to stay as grounded as I'd like.

Let's just call out the elephant in the room - not everyone is optimistic about the trajectory the US is on - and the division among us only seems to grow. 😔

Families and communities are split - with some reveling in the coming prospects and others terrified and nervous about what it means for their safety and security.

If you're struggling to find a sense of peace and community right now - and overwhelmed by the pressure to "parent" when you're feeling dysregulated or worried about the future - I see you.

My daughter is a young adult now, but I remember what I told her the last time she was feeling worried after a highly contentious election.

If you're feeling the weight of it all, I want you to know that you're not alone. Take some time to allow yourself space for whatever you (and others in your circle) might be feeling.

I know it's easier said than done, but you don't have to be regulated all the time to be a supportive parent (especially when it feels like a huge feat just to show up with a smile).

In a recent webinar, we talked about what to do when you're not able to stay regulated. It was a gentle reminder for me that I don't have to have it all together - all the time - and that's okay.

It also made me think about how being kind to ourselves during turbulent times may be one of the best things we can do for our kids.

Here are the top 3 takeaways:

It's okay to put our own needs first sometimes. In the thick of parenting, it can feel selfish to step back and take care of ourselves, but I am reminded that taking this time actually helps me be more present.
Our triggers often come from somewhere deeper. When I get overwhelmed or agitated, it's usually tied to my own stress and perspective. Taking a moment to reflect instead of reacting right away has been powerful for me. I don't have to attend every argument.

I can take time to recharge and create boundaries to safeguard my emotional well-being.
Repairing relationship matters. If I don't get it "right" in the moment, I still have the chance to reconnect, and it's a great reminder for our whole family that we're all learning to handle our emotions together.

This past week, I've been reminded how much we all need empathy and understanding - and that applies to how we parent, too! Because children grow up to value the lives of others, show empathy, and communicate respectfully - when they experience it for themselves.

➡ Put your needs first! 🎧 Take 3 minutes for yourself and watch it here.

And if the world feels uncertain for you, please remember you're not in this alone.

Thank you for being part of our community of caregivers who want to bring a little more kindness and understanding to the world - one word at a time.

Remember, conscious - not perfect. Have a beautiful week!

Warmly,