DETROIT FAMILIES: Take Care Of Yourself To Take Care Of Your Family

*Content provided by our sponsor Michigan Education Savings Plan.

By Sharlonda Buckman, CEO, Detroit Parent Network

If you don't work, nothing will. In the hustle and bustle of the busy society we live in, many times as parents we find ourselves in constant transition from work, to home, to church, to family and the cycle repeats itself with very little respite and few moments to even download the deposits we have received subliminally and in our physical state.

No wonder by the time we get to the kids we are out of patience, out of time, and occasionally half way out our minds. The conditions we live in create a constant buzz so how do we shut down the noise and take care of ourselves so we can be our best selves and the great parents our children deserve.

Personally, I like to have a glass of wine and popcorn or get together with a friend for a very happy hour.

I spoke with several members of Detroit Parent Network and here is what they shared:

Lisa Robinson, Mother of 6 children
I spend time with me!  I pray and ask God to help me and give me strength to make it through the day. I rest. I self-evaluate and try to be a better person to everyone, especially myself.

Alexis Draper, Mother of a busy toddler
Dance class, going to movies I want to see, reading, pedicures. I enjoy eating a cookie by myself that I don't have to share.

Greg Posey, Father of 4 children                                                                                                                            "I have a strong belief in Jesus. My faith is my strength and because I know God's word, I welcome all tests and trials as a parent. As far as activities go, I bowl quite a lot. I also enjoy attending music concerts in parks; just this week I went to Elizabeth park to hear some Jazz and sat near the river at Chene park as well. I simply enjoy the calmness of sitting on the water, listening to music, while others do the same."

Brian Love, Father of two children
I remind myself that it's about my kids, not about me. I also look for that smile they have when they see me, because they are truly my world. Oh, there is also the annual trip I take with the fellas! My annual trip is a 5 day stay in Miami with my brothers. We spend much of it fishing and male bonding.

Shaun Maloy, Father of 6 children                                                                                                                                                             "Moments of solitude work best for me as they afford me time to rest, reflect, and appreciate life while refreshing myself to productively engage and interact with my family and in the various spheres of my daily life."

Alicia Kilgore, Mother of 2 children
I seek my higher power. I connect with other parents. I go do fun stuff (read, cook, shop, connect with friends, or have a date night without discussing the kids.

Dorethia Conner, Mother of 2 children                                                                                                                   "I try to find a quiet moment for thinking, preferably outdoors. It doesn't always happen daily, but a few time a week."               

Dr. Tyra McKinney, Mother of 1                                                                                                                              "I am a spiritual person. I turn to the higher power within. I can do all things through Christ that strengthen me. I also have an understanding that I am my child's go to and if I want her to be successful, I have to show up and be present. And if I really have a low point, it's okay to step back, take a break and ask family or friends to step in and help."

The best way to take care of your children is to take care of yourself mentally, physically, and otherwise! This models positive healthy behavior for them as well as ensures the longevity of your positive presence In Their lives.