9 Dreams New Parents Have to Give Up
There's probably nothing more life-changing than becoming a parent. You brought a new little life into the world and you're pretty much responsible for everything it does for the next 18 years at least. Until then, you're going to have to put some hopes, dreams, and plans on hold.
Kids are messy, germ-y, and they leave a trail of toys, clothes, and diaper gear wherever they go. So if you prided yourself on how tidy and how not sticky you keep your abode, you may want to lower your standards slightly. OR pick up some new cleaning strategies.
If you haven't backpacked through Europe yet, it's not going to happen with a kid in tow. Also, swimming with the sea lions in the Galapagos Islands or horseback riding in Mongolia isn't really child-friendly, either.
Parents of babies and toddlers do have some vacation options at different all-inclusive family resorts, though. Of course, there's always a trip to Disney, too.
Part of getting a restful night of sleep is creating a routine that allows you to unwind and relax at least two hours before going to bed. If you are the parent of a fussy newborn, you have to let go of any hope that you will see 7 hours of undisturbed sleep... unless, you get a night nanny.
Since you can't have your kid tag along everywhere with you, please don't break these child care rules. Remember, the TV doesn't count as a parent.
Were you and your spouse a DINK (dual income, no kids) family? Maybe you played a little fast and loose with your spending. Don't worry, you'll get used to the necessary lifestyle changes that make you a financially responsible parent eventually. You can start by putting your tax refund into their college savings account.
You're going to have to wait until retirement to buy your fancy dream sports car, since you'll be chauffeuring a family around. The good news is, parents aren't limited to just minivans anymore. Check out the best valued cars for families.
If you're fed up with your 9 to 5 desk job, think twice before telling the boss, "I QUIT." There are many exotic and exciting places to pursue new careers, but you many want to consider a career change that works for you and your entire family with these viable options.
Your relationship with your childless-friends will likely change. There might even be a strain between you and your spouse, but it's definitely normal. So while a night out may not happen as frequently, they are still important to your well-being. It just takes a little time to find the balance.
When your kid is throwing a tantrum, talking back, or straight out lying... you can't just let that go. Sometimes, you'll need to be the disciplinarian, even if that's not in your nature.
Even when you're kids are behaving like perfect angels, you'll probably still feel some form of parental anxiety, just because you love them so much! There's no other job in the world like being a parent. It's a huge responsibility, but also one of the most fulfilling things you can do in life.
1. Keeping your place and yourself immaculately clean
Kids are messy, germ-y, and they leave a trail of toys, clothes, and diaper gear wherever they go. So if you prided yourself on how tidy and how not sticky you keep your abode, you may want to lower your standards slightly. OR pick up some new cleaning strategies.
2. Going on exotic or adventurous travels
If you haven't backpacked through Europe yet, it's not going to happen with a kid in tow. Also, swimming with the sea lions in the Galapagos Islands or horseback riding in Mongolia isn't really child-friendly, either.
Parents of babies and toddlers do have some vacation options at different all-inclusive family resorts, though. Of course, there's always a trip to Disney, too.
3. Getting truly restful sleep
Part of getting a restful night of sleep is creating a routine that allows you to unwind and relax at least two hours before going to bed. If you are the parent of a fussy newborn, you have to let go of any hope that you will see 7 hours of undisturbed sleep... unless, you get a night nanny.
4. Being spontaneous
Since you can't have your kid tag along everywhere with you, please don't break these child care rules. Remember, the TV doesn't count as a parent.
5. Big spending
Were you and your spouse a DINK (dual income, no kids) family? Maybe you played a little fast and loose with your spending. Don't worry, you'll get used to the necessary lifestyle changes that make you a financially responsible parent eventually. You can start by putting your tax refund into their college savings account.
6. Driving your dream car
You're going to have to wait until retirement to buy your fancy dream sports car, since you'll be chauffeuring a family around. The good news is, parents aren't limited to just minivans anymore. Check out the best valued cars for families.
7. Quitting your job
If you're fed up with your 9 to 5 desk job, think twice before telling the boss, "I QUIT." There are many exotic and exciting places to pursue new careers, but you many want to consider a career change that works for you and your entire family with these viable options.
8. Being a socialite
Your relationship with your childless-friends will likely change. There might even be a strain between you and your spouse, but it's definitely normal. So while a night out may not happen as frequently, they are still important to your well-being. It just takes a little time to find the balance.
9. Being "cool" and "chill"
When your kid is throwing a tantrum, talking back, or straight out lying... you can't just let that go. Sometimes, you'll need to be the disciplinarian, even if that's not in your nature.
10. And why it's all worth it...
Even when you're kids are behaving like perfect angels, you'll probably still feel some form of parental anxiety, just because you love them so much! There's no other job in the world like being a parent. It's a huge responsibility, but also one of the most fulfilling things you can do in life.
Up Next: Should You Let Your Baby "Cry It Out?"
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