Prioritization in Parenting

Reverse Pyramid

Usually when we think about how a pyramid might be built, the first few stones are placed at the bottom of the pyramid without full view of what it look look like. In the case of prioritizing with parenting the opposite may be true. In this case the pyramid is upside down and we see the goal and can take small steps toward that goal each day. This way we maintain our goals and big picture thinking, while in parallel taking small steps to achieve those goals.

And example might be a child’s college fun. In this case we know the goal we want to put aside money to pay for our children’s college fund at one point. By taking the small steps and looking at the big picture we may set aside a certain amount each month to place this money aside for this purpose. Additionally if we’re thinking about our child retirement fund we may do the same here as well. Putting aside some money in a Roth IRA on behalf of the child with a specific amount in mind each month in order to ensure due to growth and accumulation that the child will be comfortable by the time they retire.

Assess
Every situation is different

Prioritization requires and adequate assessment of where the situation is at the current moment. Understanding all the players, and all of the aspects of the situation help to assess what may be the most important next step. My father is to always say to me you are here, now. This meant I had to start where I was currently and not think about my ideal starting point. This helps to adequately understand what the best first step might be depending on the current situation.

Financially

making financial goals according to the achievements desired is a good place to begin thinking about budgeting, and plans to save.

Family

Assessing the needs of the family, each member, and the current essentials helps in determining who needs how much of the resources at any given time. If extended family requires some assistance, this can be considered as well.

Career

Making career goals according to how it fits with the other parts of the puzzle considering needs of the family and other needs is essential in creating adequate career goals. These goals may include putting certain promotions or advancements on hold for a period of time in order to prioritize other aspects of one’s livelihood.In the case for both partners are working to support a household one partner may choose to prioritize one aspect over another.

Minimalism

There are a lot of great organization techniques, and a lot of great ways to motivate oneself to organize. Plenty of ideas are available. Finding an appealing combination of motivation, inspiration, calibration, and distraction can allow for an ideal organizing environment. 

The schedule of organizing and cleaning is very specific to each household. It depends on the family members, how well each family member is utilizing self-care, and whether or not organizing truly does a joy to the household. All of these things are worth considering when scheduling cleanings and organization for the household.

Be realistic

It is OK not to be perfect. Sometimes the schedules and plans that are set up are not always feasible at a given time depending on the other circumstances. Because of this it’s important to assess during each time. Whether or not prioritizing a specific task might even be possible during that time. It’s also sometimes likely that certain things might be prioritized or other things to prove depending on the time frame and the time of year as well as the season. Regularly looking at ones circumstances and understanding what can be realistic and what might be overkill can really help to prioritize accordingly.

Donate generously and to a local non profit
Donating to a charity or nonprofit is a really good practice. This allows us to cleanse our own income, our wealth, and get in touch with things that are going on in the world outside of ourselves. This can also give us a sense of belonging and ownership. Being a part of something bigger has always been something that has been important to members of the human race. Socialization and being part of it is some thing that can help with mental health as well.

Schedule

When it comes to scheduling it may help to look at the schedule on a six month or one year cadence by prioritizing the following:
Start with the important dates:
Tax day
First day of school

Registration deadlines

Important doctor/dentist appointments 
Consider Holidays and Birthdays

Plan early and often
Plan weekly
Check calendar daily

Interact with kids: researching the following methods, parents and utilize resources to encourage: 
ST(R)EAM
Positive parenting
PCIT
Behavior encouragement
Social encouragement
Building Mastery

Teaching to master mental health
Being grateful - finding ways to find gratitude and self love can shape perception and increase contentment.

Don’t you dare compare. Appreciating and having gratitude can help shift this mindset. The truth is: there will always be someone better. Focusing on one’s own progress and growth is the only realistic metric to measure against. It’s not a race - it’s a marathon. Understanding that at times, steps back and forward are a normal part of any growth process is essential in maintaining strength for the long haul.

Meditation and Quiet time. Finding time to be still, mindful, and present has proven to have positive impacts on neurological processes. What does that mean? 

By taking care of oneself, one can thoughtfully prioritize effectively.