Parents are under a lot of pressure to be perfect and have the perfect family, a perfect home, and the perfect life. With the bar set as high as it is, these expectations can create a lot of stress and tension.

It’s easy to get lost in all the responsibilities on your to-do list, from helping your kids with homework and dropping them off at soccer practice to keeping the house squeaky clean and looking your best. Many people lose sight of their own needs and want while scrambling to do it all.

However, you can (and should!) still be happy while keeping up with all of your responsibilities. After all, your family can only thrive if you yourself are alright. So, how do you have it all? Here are a few ideas to help you deal with parent stress and come out victorious.

1. Take a moment to be proud of yourself

Take a good look at your children and appreciate how far you’ve come together. From a whimpering newborn to the person they are now, they have grown and learned so many thanks to your love and support.

You deserve to applaud yourself for all the hard work you put in. Celebrate your achievements and look forward to all of those that are to come.

2. Have some me time

Practicing self-care is very important for your mental and physical well-being. Whether this means having a glass of wine with your friends or a spa day in silence, it’s up to you. The main thing is taking some time for yourself, without distractions or disruptions.

Focusing on yourself and getting out of your parent role for a few hours will energize you. You’ll be more patient and more attentive to your kids afterward.

3. Stop obsessing about the little things

Everyone makes mistakes, so don’t beat yourself up about them. It’s okay to learn and grow from them. So, stop thinking about everything you could’ve done differently as a parent. Focus on being present and doing your best, rather than striving for perfection.

Your children already think you’re perfect just the way you are. Try seeing yourself through their eyes and you’ll realize that you’re the most amazing parent they could ever have,

4. Let go of grudges

The ability to forgive and move on is a valuable skill. Forgiveness helps you let go of negativity and live a more fulfilled life. Your children will make disappointing decisions from time to time, but it’s your job to understand and guide them even when they’re not on their best behavior.

Instead of holding their faux pas against them, try approaching them from a place of love and helping them overcome them.

5. Stay in the moment

Don’t let your mind wander while spending time with your children. Focus on the here and now, and enjoy them thoroughly. For example, when you decide to spend a Saturday at a trampoline park, watch them play and be there for them.

Time flies, so it’s important to spend it wisely. Mindfulness can help you stay present and decrease anxiety and stress. Try making mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, a part of your daily routine.

6. Remember you’re more than just a parent

People sometimes get completely absorbed in parenthood and lose sight of the interests they once had. They feel it’s their responsibility to focus all their attention on their kids without wasting time on themselves.

But having hobbies is actually great for your children because it keeps you happy, and happier people make better parents.

7. Ask for help

Don’t be shy about asking for help when you need it. Nobody can do it all on their own. Whether you’ll get a nanny or ask a friend or relative to take care of the kids once in a while, it’s healthy to take a break.