10 Tips to Become a Happier Parent

Most parents should say that their child is the biggest blessing in their life and that their child makes them happiest out of everything they have. Unfortunately, a lot of people get stressed out with other aspects of their lives and are not able to enjoy the wonderful experience that is parenting.

Fox News has recently offered a couple of tips for parents labelled the "10 Secrets to Happy Parenting." In their article, they share ten tips that prove that it is possible to be a happy parent "Between sleepless nights, toddler meltdowns, and kids pushing your buttons. Here is a rundown of their complete list of tips.

Their first tip is to connect with your child. As a parent, true happiness lies in connection, says Dr. Laura Markham. You do not have to spend every waking hour with your child, but it is advisable that you set aside a few hours of your day to connect with him or her. It is also advisable to be proactive with your child. Do things in advance if you can to reduce stress.

The third tip is to stop yelling. You can feel more calm if you do so. "That way, even when you're just a little annoyed with your child, if you're doing that on a regular basis you'll find that you're much calmer when you do start to yell and get upset," says Dr. Markham. It is also important to be kind to yourself.

Fifth on the list is to nix the guilt. Burying yourself in guilt can increase stress and make you snap at your children even if you did not mean to do so. Rating your stress is important as well to make sure that you do not have too much of it in your life. Be grateful for the things that make you happy, and let go of the things that stress you out.

The ninth tip is to treat yourself with a proven stress reliever, retail therapy. And finally, you and your spouse should make time for each other. It does not matter if it is a romantic dinner or a movie. What's important is you spend time together. Fox News also reports that "a happy marriage, secure bank account and good sleep make for happy moms and dads."