Parents Share What Disappointed Them About Having Kids, And Here Are 45 Of The Most Honest Responses

With so much information on how to be a perfect parent out there, many moms, dads and caregivers can feel overwhelmed. Anisa Lewis says that the “important thing here is to remember that there is NO SUCH THING as the perfect parent, we are all human and therefore perfectly imperfect.”

She also shared some tips on dealing with the parenting pressure and feeling overwhelmed. “Work out what is right for you and your family – only you will know this. Seek help if you need it – it is okay not to be okay.”

Moreover, Anisa argues that it’s wise “to cut ties with things/people that make you compare yourself to others – social media, a person, a class you attend, etc.” According to her, it is about creating boundaries that allow you to bring out the best in you and your family without the pressure of comparison.

There also exist new challenges that today's parents face which didn’t exist in previous generations of parents. “New challenges such as screens, mobile phones and advances in technology were not there to be faced by previous generations,” Anisa explained.

The parenting coach also believes that the movement away from raising the family as a ‘village’ is something that is a challenge for this generation.

With many people becoming parents later in life and others choosing a childfree lifestyle, it’s easy to become the only parent in your social circle. Anisa confirmed that raising kids can sometimes feel a little lonely and even isolating.

Her advice is “to create the social circle that you need around you, not to the detriment of cutting off ties with childless friends and family members, unless of course you want to.”

Moreover, Anisa encourages parents to look at classes you can join with your child or without.“Be open to new friendships. If there is a parent at pick up at a school or a club who also perhaps is looking around feeling a bit lost, approach them, start a conversation and see where it goes.”

According to Anisa, “Even if you potentially don’t feel like joining the mums' or dads' night out, you may just find someone you gel with and then you don’t have to go to any others! Of course, if this is your thing, then enjoy.”

“Use social media for good, join parent groups that are around you locally and that allow you to connect with other like-minded parents,” she added.

“Parents can often get lost in the throes of mother and fatherhood but it is important that you take time for you to do things that you enjoy doing such as a sport, time with friends when your kids aren’t there, a creative pursuit, go on dates. It is about being a little selfish and prioritizing you,” the positive parenting coach concluded.