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Educational Background: The Value of a Liberal Arts Degree
If you have a degree in philosophy, you’re in luck! The repetitive nature of driving the same routes day after day provides ample time for deep thinking. You might ponder existential questions like whether life is indeed “nasty, brutish, and short,” or if it’s more reminiscent of the never-ending agony of sitting in traffic with a group of energetic kids competing in a giggling contest. There’s definitely a thesis lurking in that scenario. -
The Other Liberal Arts Degree Advantage
Not a philosophy major? No problem! A degree in English literature or anthropology can also come in handy for carpooling. You graduated knowing you could either drive a cab or set sail on a research vessel (which would serve as the backdrop for your novel). This mental preparation for long hours in less-than-ideal conditions makes you well-equipped for the carpooling experience—minus the paycheck, of course. -
Spiritual Resilience
When one child is repeatedly banging on your cup holder, another is fighting for the last granola bar, and a third is belting out tunes, a calm demeanor is essential. Having some training in mindfulness or meditation can be a lifesaver. Taking deep breaths and accepting the chaos can help you maintain your cool, especially when a luxury car cuts you off just as you enter the freeway. -
NPR Endurance Test
How much NPR can you tolerate before you reach your breaking point? Do you plan your errands around “All Things Considered”? If you’ve absorbed so many stories about cutting-edge cancer research that you could practically start your own lab, congratulations! Sometimes, the soothing sounds of NPR are your best defense against the monotony of carpooling. Even if your little passengers grumble for pop music, stick to your guns and share the latest story about educational advancements or medical breakthroughs. Either they’ll learn something new or they’ll beg their parents to find another ride. -
Patience with Other Kids
When a child spills chocolate milk in your car (again!), do you lose your cool? Or when another kid requests silence so they can read, are you tempted to drop them off on the side of the road? If your patience is wearing thin and you find yourself fantasizing about venting to another parent about their kids’ behavior, it might be time to reconsider those after-school commitments. -
Swearing Skills
Every now and then, you may need to let off some steam—preferably when only your child is in the car. “Mommy, the other drivers can’t hear you,” my friend Sarah’s son once reminded her. True, they can’t, but it sure does feel good to express your frustrations about that oblivious driver ahead! -
Physical Resilience
Beyond just strong arms for driving and the ability to block out noise, having a robust digestive system is a must to survive on a diet of fast food, stale snacks, and melted gummy bear vitamins. Your body needs to withstand the chaos that carpooling brings.
In summary, while carpooling can be a challenge, it can also be an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. For more insights on navigating the journey of parenthood, check out our other blog post here. And if you’re considering at-home insemination, this online retailer offers great options for insemination kits. Plus, for those curious about fertility treatments, this guide is an excellent starting point.
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