Raising a child is hard enough with two parents. For single parents, it’s even more difficult. In fact, let’s be honest: On most days, it seems like a monumental task. The good news: You’re not alone. In fact, single-parent families are increasingly becoming the norm in our society with high divorce rates, escalating number of teenage pregnancies and many men and women deciding to raise children even when they haven’t found the right partner to settle down with.

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Single mother and fatherhood is on the rise.

However, being a single parent is no easy feat. There are chores to be done, kids to be raised, behavioral problems to be remedied and work to be done. If you’re a single parent juggling work, kids and chores, here is a list of five secrets that will help you become not only a great parent but the vest version of yourself. Take a couple of deep breaths and dive right in:

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present, being aware of your thoughts and behavior without reacting to them. It aims to bring our attention to the present moment without judgement. Think of it as simply observing your emotions, thoughts and behavior without passing any judgement at all.

Most of lead hectic lives and are plagued with bouts of anxiety, stress and depression in our everyday lives. Single parents are particularly caught up with to-do lists, chores and work. The brain begins to run on autopilot mode and instead of living in the moment, we start living in our heads.

The simplest way to practice mindfulness every day is to consciously become aware of the present moment. When you’re sipping tea, smell the leaves, sip and actually taste it rather than chugging it down. While walking, notice the sights, scents and people around you without reacting to anything. The more you practice mindfulness, the better you’ll get at it. Several studies have suggested that being aware of our thoughts, feelings and behavior greatly reduces stress and anxiety.

Give yourself some free time: Self-care is not selfish. Take a whole day off a week or every couple of weeks to do things that you like such as sipping espresso at a café while reading a book, exercising and then shopping or exploring a neighboring town. Anything that is free of children, chores and errands. A relaxed, rested and healthier version of you will be a better parent to your child than a frustrated and fatigued one.

Invest in quality childcare: Chances are that, besides being a single parent, you’re also the sole breadwinner of the family. If you’re working full-time, it’s a good idea to invest in quality childcare. Find a caregiver you trust and who has experience with children. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Arrange a carpool schedule with other parents if you can’t take your child to school every day. Ask a reliable parent or dependable neighbor to watch your kid for a few hours when you need it. You’ll be surprised at how many people will be willing to lend a helping hand.

Set a work schedule that suits your parenting needs: Nine times out of ten if you tell your boss you need to tweak your work timings in order to pick up your son from school or daycare, he will understand. Don’t be afraid to ask for some off time when you need it. Also, don’t be scared to disclose to your boss that you’re a single parent. They will be understanding. Alternatively, if you’re making a job switch, apply to companies that provide ample parental support.

Let go: Let’s face it -- There are some things you just can’t control in life. Don’t obsess over these little things. Kids will be kids and chores will always be needed to be done. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, join a support group for single parents or talk to a counselor. You should take all the help you can get.

Always remember that you’re doing the best you can with what you have right now and that’s the best anyone can do. Be kind, patient and forgiving to yourself. Most of all, love yourself just like you love your child and provide yourself the same unconditional support that you give them.

If you or someone you know would benefit from a counseling session, contact Orly Gueron a Licensed marriage and family therapist and relationship specialist in Aventura, FL!