Let’s be honest, being a parent can be hard! There is no special training, no book, no schooling that can truly prepare you to be a parent. This means that everyone’s parenting styles are different. Your parenting style is influenced by your own experiences, and everyone’s experiences are unique. Even the most seasoned and well-equipped parents struggle sometimes and get stressed. Try these 10 simple affirmations to help yourself remain calm and regulated when things get hard.

1. I forgive myself for my mistakes. 
2. It’s ok to not have all the answers.
3. I have everything I need to be a good parent.
4. Every day is a fresh start.
5. It is enough to just do my best.
6. I trust my instincts and decisions.
7. I give myself permission to have ups and downs.
8. I will strive for progress not perfection.
9. My attitude makes all the difference.
10. Self-care is not selfish.

It can be easy to fall into a pattern of feeling not good enough or get stuck in parent guilt, but the truth is that parenting is hard work sometimes and we are all trying to do the best we can. Reminding yourself that the mistakes or the not so perfect parenting moments are where we learn and grow. When we know better, we do better! The grace we offer ourselves models self-compassion and care to our children. And when we can show up better for ourselves, our children benefit.