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Five Secrets To Find Happiness As A Single Parent

ozdadTake a deep breath and pat yourself on the back … you are now a single parent. I know, what you are thinking. “Why would I pat myself on the back, this sucks!” You would be accurate with your first reaction, but let’s take a step back and quiet your mind for one second to reflect on the gift you just received.

The first thing you should do is put on the happiest face you can muster and be grateful that you NOW have a second chance to start your life over. You have been given the ultimate gift. It may not seem like it. It may seem like your heart was ripped out and your emotions and self confidence are there on the floor. As you look at your self esteem (or what’s left of it) on the floor you have a choice to make. This choice will determine the rest of your week and the rest of your life.

Let’s look at your hand. Open your hand and you will find five fingers. Each finger represents a secret that if used correctly will elevate you to levels far beyond the life you use to have when you were married. These fingers represent how you can see the world with this new gift that you have been given to you.

The pinky finger represents forgiveness. If you are EVER going to release the past, you have to forgive and release all the negativity and stress that has been eating up at you for so long. If you don’t release your past, you will forever carry around with you the hate and the stress that has been stored up during your divorce.

Your ring finger, the one that use to have a ring on it, represents how grateful you are for your new life. That’s it! I said it! As of right now, be grateful for the life you have. I know it seems impossible sometimes to be grateful, especially after what you have been through. Gratitude is what will get you through the day. It is what will keep you smiling and lift up your heart so that you can be a great role model for your children.

Your middle finger (the one you have used most often when it comes to thinking about your ex) represents the gift that you now have to give to others. This is the gift of love, of routine, of structure and of discipline. Keeping your kids on a routine is critical to give them a sense of stability. Your gift to them is to NOT talk about your ex in a negative manner. Your gift to them is being the healthiest and happiest parent you can be for them.

Your pointer finger represents you shutting yourself up to reflect. You need this time to meditate to get yourself centered. This will allow you to focus on what you really want out of life. It allows you to finally think clearly so that you can make a decision rationally without overreacting. Once you become a single parent, we are famous for reacting, especially when it comes to your ex, you’ll see.

Finally, we have your thumb. Your thumb represents your ability to take action everyday to follow your passion. I am NOT talking about your kids. I am talking about what it is YOU want. What are your dreams? Stop being in motion everyday and racing on the treadmill that has no end. Set goals that you are passionate about and take action everyday to achieve them. There is NO better role model for your children than a parent who sets goals and actually achieves them.

Put both hands out in front of you and choose to use these secrets today!

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About The Author:
Steve Garrison is a single dad of three children and an author, living in suburban Madison, Wisconsin. His life story mirrors that of many Americans. He made some poor decisions in his life, suffered emotionally and financially.  Each time, he picked himself back up and tried again to make life better for himself and his children. His latest book, The Five Secrets from Oz, explores the endless possibilities that await those seeking a life change. Garrison has stayed true to his desire to want to help others and believes this book appeals to all individuals wanting to better their lives. He can be reached at garrison.stephen@gmail.com.

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