When to Be on Guard

You need to watch out for these situations.

There are certain times I’m at risk of losing my patience with my family.

I should be on guard always, but I know myself.
When I’m experiencing these situations, I’m more at risk.

Do the HAT check.

If I am:
>> Hungry,
>> Anxious, or
>> Tired

Then I know I’m more susceptible to losing my cool.
Extra precautions need to be put in place.

Take a minute before disciplining.
Disciplining out of anger is not good parenting.

Get outdoors.
Sunlight and fresh air do wonders.

Communicate with your spouse.
Let them know how you’re feeling and work together.

Parenting is tough.

If you aren’t coming from a good place mentally then you likely won’t parent well.

Maybe the HAT check will help.

• In the midst of hard situations, we tend to pray to remove the pain. Perhaps it is God’s will though to get you through the pain and make you stronger because of it.

• I heard a toddler yell at his dad this weekend. I didn’t think much of it. Toddlers do that sometimes. The father’s response caught my attention though. In nearly an identical tone, volume, and attitude, the father yelled back. The kid learned it from his dad. It reminded me that kids learn more by example than words. Model the behavior you want from your kids.

I hope you have a great week!!

God Bless,
Matt Virgin