Explore six different strategies on how to develop self-awareness to make more intentional parenting choices with this article from PsychCentral. Below, you’ll find a summary of the six strategies, based on Dr. Carla Naumburg’s book Parenting in the Present Moment. Check out the full article to read about these practices in depth.
1. Practice mindfulness.
Pay attention to yourself with curiosity rather than judgment. Some ways to practice this include simply listening. Focus on the sounds around you and take deep breaths. When your mind wanders, bring your attention back to the surrounding sounds.
2. Talk to family members.
Talk to those who can share objective insight into your early years. This helps develop self-awareness, which prevents unconsciously repeating patterns of your own childhood into your parenting.
3. Pay attention to your triggers.
Notice which people, events, or other things that spark the behaviors you’re trying to change. When you become aware of these triggers, you can develop strategies to navigate them more mindfully such as removing distractions, slowing down, and taking intentional breaths.
4. Pay attention to your body.
We tend to store our emotions in our bodies. Learning to notice signs such as tension in your shoulders or tightness in your chest can help you be more in tune with what you’re feeling at the moment.
5. Keep a journal.
Naumburg highlights the benefits of journaling by referencing a quote from Julia Cameron: “Writing is a powerful form of prayer and meditation, connecting us both to our own insights and to a higher and deeper level of inner guidance.”
6. See a therapist.
Talking to a therapist can help you make connections and develop positive coping skills.
