As a parent, I strive to exemplify positive behavior, understanding that my children are more likely to imitate my actions than heed my words. Yet, I often find myself falling short of the very guidelines I set for them. Despite my best intentions, certain habits I discourage in my kids are ones I find myself indulging in when they are out of sight. Here are five contradictory behaviors I advise my children against but find myself engaging in:
1. Excessive Consumption of Treats
I maintain a strict rule allowing my children only one piece of candy per day for a few days following special occasions. While they dispose of the majority of their sweets, I often find myself sneaking into their candy stash after bedtime. I know I shouldn’t, but the appeal of those chocolate-coated treats is simply too great to resist.
2. Neglecting Sufficient Sleep
My children have established bedtimes, yet I frequently disregard my own advice about getting enough rest. Despite recognizing the importance of sleep for overall health, I often work late into the night and wake up feeling exhausted. My eldest once pointed out my tiredness, reminding me, “Maybe you should go to bed earlier, Mom.”
3. Binge-Watching Shows
I confess to binge-watching shows, currently engrossed in a series that has me telling myself repeatedly to watch just one more episode. Ironically, I impose strict screen time limits on my children, who have only recently begun watching television.
4. Using Inappropriate Language
While I encourage respectful communication, I occasionally slip up with my language, muttering mild expletives when frustrated. My children may not curse, but they have picked up on some of my expressions—often leading to awkward conversations about appropriate words.
5. Inactivity
I often emphasize the benefits of physical activity to my kids, yet I struggle to be consistently active myself. I find myself caught up in work or other obligations, and while I may start out strong with a fitness routine, it often fizzles out within weeks. Though I make an effort to walk more or engage in occasional dance classes, I know I could set a better example.
Despite these contradictions, I am proud of the positive habits I do model—such as reading regularly, promoting healthy eating, and fostering kindness and family bonding. As parents, we aim to cultivate good habits in our children, often sacrificing our own wellbeing in the process. I am committed to being more mindful of my actions, focusing on achievable goals like limiting screen time or prioritizing exercise to better care for myself as I do for my children.
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Summary
Parenting often involves navigating personal contradictions between the advice we give our children and our own behaviors. While I encourage healthy habits and discipline, I find myself occasionally indulging in actions I discourage, such as late-night snacking and binge-watching. Acknowledging these contradictions can help us strive for better consistency and mindfulness in our parenting approach.