Thursday, July 23, 2009

Why Parents Need to Have Fun Too!

Parents often find the boredom of similar routines and responsibilities, day in, day out, monotonous, all-consuming and overwhelming. At times, it can feel like all the fun and spontaneity in life has gone for good.

Many parents also commonly place the needs of others before their own, leaving little time or energy for self-care and fun.

As parents, we're told we should be investing a great deal of time, energy and often money to ensure our children are raised living happy, constantly-entertained, fun-filled lives.

But what about us, the Parents? Who said only little kids get have fun? We "big kids" not only want to have fun but need to have fun. Why? Because it helps us stay sane when life with children at times can feel like anything but.

I was recently one of over 300 parents who attended a parenting talk given by Nigel Latta, NZ Clinical Psychologist and Author. We were treated to an evening of learning, laughter and lighthearted entertainment.

The best thing about the night wasn't the great practical parenting advice Nigel shared with us; it was parents going out for a night with their friends and partners, and having a really good laugh! It was an opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy the lighter side of life (without feeling guilty for doing so!).

What helps you to relax and enjoy life? What's stopping you from enjoying life as it is right now? What do you need to do to include fun and enjoyment in your life?

It's a fact: laughter makes us feel good, and that's something I think we "grown-ups" could do with more often.

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