Family life today is hard. Really freakin’ hard. When you stop and figure in the outside influences of social media (TikTok challenges, UGH) and people, it can feel really hard to get your footing in a positive and meaningful way.
While it may sound like I’m speaking gibberish, there are ways to navigate this part of parenting a family. It may not all be sunshine and rainbows, but you can find a way to enjoy family life today and keep the distractions away.
What are some of the pressures on family life today?
It’s a hard question and an easy question all in one. If we’re speaking on outside influences, kids (and adults) have a TON of pressure when it comes to “keeping up with the Joneses.”
The pressures are literally EVERYWHERE. From the moment we wake up to the moment we go to bed, we’re constantly comparing what we do and don’t have. And this is just the adults.
Add in the pressures of kids in this era — and it’s a zoo out there. And while it might not be realistic to shut off the outside world totally, there are ways you might be able to get a bit of perspective and balance in your house.
Unplug
It might sound crazy and totally undoable, but it’s possible. To stop constantly comparing yourself to everyone else, put down the phone and turn off the TV. (And seriously, you guys, remember those are FILTERS on those unblemished faces.)
Have tough conversations
Even when you feel like you’re doing everything possible to limit the pressures of the world, they still find a way to sneak through the cracks and make their mark.
Don’t turn a blind eye. Instead, embrace the challenge and use it as a chance to grow. The kids need to be able to navigate during times like this — and so do you.
Sit down and talk to them about the pressures they’re feeling and what’s really bothering them. They may or may not actually participate in the conversation, but at least it’s an attempt.
And to be honest, your kids hear way more than you actually think they do — your “nagging” voice, as they so politely call it, is helping to shape them into responsible adults.
The pressures on family life today are literally INSANE.
We live in a world where we’re expected to do all, be all, and manage all without issues. And guess what?
I’m not down for that.
I want to have a family that has a safe space at home — where they can be who they are and who they want to be without the worry of impressing others 24/7.
Because we all know the moment you step out the door, it feels like there are eyes watching your every move.
Give yourself and your household the courage and confidence to embrace your family’s quirks, uniqueness, and the way you all function best together.
This is one way to make a truly unbreakable family bond and show that love and support really are the best ways to face life’s challenges.