Parenting is one of life’s greatest blessings—but let’s be honest, it can also be one of its greatest challenges. As a mother to five biological boys and one bonus son, and with 20 years of experience teaching parenting classes across five different curriculums, I’ve seen firsthand the ups, downs, and beautiful chaos that come with raising children.
In today’s world, parenting can feel overwhelming. Between work, school, sports, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to get lost in the routine and forget the joy that made us want to be parents in the first place. But here’s the truth: parenting doesn’t have to be just about surviving—it can be about thriving.
And if you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure how to bring joy back into your parenting, coaching with me can help you find your way again. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges, uncover solutions that work for your family, and bring balance back into your life.
Rediscovering Joy in Parenting
1. Focus on Connection Over Perfection
It’s easy to get caught up in parenting “rules” and expectations. We want our kids to be well-behaved, respectful, and successful—but sometimes, our need for control gets in the way of true connection. Instead of focusing on being a “perfect” parent, focus on being present.
- Spend one-on-one time with each child, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day.
- Be playful—laugh, wrestle, build forts, have dance parties.
- Listen with intention. Sometimes, kids just need to be heard, not “fixed.”
When we shift from managing our kids to truly knowing them, parenting becomes a source of joy instead of stress.
2. Let Go of the Guilt and the “Shoulds”
There is no single “right” way to parent. I’ve taught five different curriculums, and I can tell you—what works for one family may not work for another. The key is to find what works for you and release the guilt of not doing things “perfectly.”
- Screen time? Do what’s best for your family.
- Homeschool or public school? Either way, your love and support matter most.
- Gentle parenting vs. firm boundaries? A balance of both is often best.
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s raising healthy, resilient kids while keeping your sanity intact. And if you’re struggling to find that balance, life coaching can give you the tools and confidence to create the parenting approach that works for you.
Prioritizing Your Marriage in the Chaos of Parenting
One of the biggest struggles parents face is maintaining a strong marriage while raising kids. It’s easy to get so caught up in parenting that your spouse starts to feel like a roommate instead of a partner. But your marriage is the foundation of your family—when it thrives, your kids benefit too.
1. Make Time for Each Other (Without Guilt!)
It’s okay to prioritize your relationship.
- Schedule regular date nights—even if it’s just a walk together after the kids are in bed.
- Send texts throughout the day to check in and stay connected.
- Keep laughing—watch funny movies, reminisce, and be playful together.
2. Don’t Let Parenting Divide You
It’s easy to fall into the trap of “who does more?” But instead of keeping score, focus on being a team.
- Support each other’s parenting decisions.
- Have united front discipline strategies.
- Celebrate each other’s wins—sometimes, just hearing “You’re doing a great job” makes all the difference.
If you and your spouse feel like you’re drifting apart, coaching can help you rebuild your connection while balancing the demands of parenting.
Making Time for Yourself (Without Feeling Selfish!)
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Parenting takes mental, emotional, and physical energy, and if you don’t recharge, burnout is inevitable. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
1. Schedule “Me Time” Like an Appointment
Treat self-care as non-negotiable. Whether it’s reading, exercising, journaling, or just sitting in silence for 10 minutes—make it happen.
2. Find Your Support System
No one is meant to parent alone. Build a community—whether it’s friends, family, or a parenting group—so you have people to lean on when things get tough.
3. Allow Yourself to Step Away
It’s okay to take a break. Let the kids watch a movie while you take a bath. Say yes to babysitters. You’ll be a better parent when you’re refreshed instead of exhausted.
4. Make an Appointment with Me at Delirious with Joy Life Coaching
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, lost in the chaos of parenting, or struggling to find time for yourself and your relationships, I’m here to help. A coaching session with me can provide you with the tools, encouragement, and clarity to bring joy back into your parenting journey. You don’t have to do this alone—let’s work together to find solutions that fit your family’s needs.
Parenting with Joy, Even in the Chaos
Parenting isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about showing up, loving deeply, and learning as you go. There will be hard days, but there will also be moments of pure magic—the giggles before bedtime, the handmade cards, the unexpected “I love yous.” Those are the moments that matter.
If you feel like the stress of parenting is taking over and you’re struggling to find joy in the chaos, I’m here to help. Coaching with me isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s about helping you clear the clutter, find what truly matters, and create a life where you can love parenting and still have time for yourself and your relationships.
Let’s work together to bring balance, peace, and joy back into your family life. Because you deserve it, and so do your kids.
