Continued...

Along those lines, I also made lots of goals for my family that sounded great but left me feeling drained. Particularly because I homeschool, I had tons of educational ideals and goals that I had to look at realistically. I found I was comparing my ordinary days to someone else’s highlight reel, and it left me feeling like I was never doing enough. If that sounds familiar, it’s probably time for you to declutter your ideals as well.

3. Dust Off Your Things...and put them to use!

Believe me, I know that the hum-drum of daily responsibilities can take a toll that leaves you feeling a bit dusty. Winter is the worst on my psyche, so a good spring dusting is just what I need. Dust off your giggle box and find some reasons to laugh with your children. Dust off your CD player and turn up the music and dance with them.

Dust off the fancy dishes and use them for an ordinary meal. Dust off your dancing shoes, a beloved novel, the old sewing machine, or whatever used to bring you joy that has been long forgotten. These are not days to be withstood but enjoyed!

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4. Dust Off Your Relationships

Dust off your relationships, too. Call an old friend you haven’t been in contact with in a while. Rekindle a bit of romance with your partner. Take your child out for a special treat, just the two of you, and study him or her. Get to know your loved ones again, in a new light, and delight in them. When you are feeling close and connected with those you love, you’re a better parent.

5. Spruce Up

Maybe the problem isn’t that you have too many commitments but not enough exciting ones. Perhaps it’s time to step out of your comfort zone. I’ve been wanting to take a dance class and learn how to play the piano. What am I waiting for?

We parents often put our own wishes and desires on the back burner as we serve our children and others first, but if we don’t fill ourselves up, too, we have nothing to pour out to others. This is your life! Spruce it up.

6. Renew

Have you slipped back into old habits that you were determined to kick at the start of the new year? Maybe you’re yelling again or your commitment to positive parenting is waning. Maybe you’re feeling like you’ve failed again and all is lost.

It is not lost. Set backs are opportunities to prove your strength and resolve. Whatever needs renewing or reviving in your life, and you’ll know what it is, spring is a beautiful time to make it happen.

“The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.” – Harriet Ann Jacobs

Related Article: How to Create a Peaceful Home

Rebecca Eanes is the bestselling author of multiple books including Positive Parenting: An Essential Guide, The Positive Parenting Workbook, and The Gift of a Happy Mother. She is the grateful mom of two boys.