What do you do when parenting gets hard?

[peggyhill]

I thought about putting this in randoms, but I figured it may be better as it’s own thread. I figure more people will see and post, and more people can gather wisdom and help when they need it.
What are some things you do when parenting gets hard that help get you through rough patches?
DS is going through some changes it would seem, he’s getting more alert and therefor needs more stimulation. His eating habits are also changing. I’m trying to do my best right now to take time to myself, work on myself and my environment to make it a happy one. I’m trying to remember that it is a phase, and it too shall pass.
Any other insight ladies?

[cmb]

Make time for yourself and don’t be afraid to say you need a break. Find something daily to do for you, and it’s okay to let baby fuss for a few minutes.

For me, I use nap time to do a workout and shower. She often only catnaps and wakes at the end of my 30 minute workout. I try to finish, and as long as she isn’t full blown crying, I leave her fuss for a few minutes. I absolutely need to shower daily even if I don’t workout. I sneak this during her next catnap. All house work waits until this is complete.

There are days I tell my husband I just need a break from her. I make him help at night.

For stimulation, we rotate through the bouncer, playgym, crib mobile, and sit me up. I eat in front of her while she’s in the sit me up (added bonus is it gets them interested in solids by the time they can have them). We listen to music and dance around the living room. She also joins in on storytime with her brothers

[doodlemommy]

I find that for me getting out of the house is huge in rough parenting patches. It’s too easy to sit at home in Pjs and get frustrated. My kids are always better behaved out of the house and I get coffee or something out of it. I also am super lucky because my mom lives a 5 minute walk/1 minute drive away and we are really close so she is able to help if needed

[thinkchocolate05]

I would say to remember that each child is a unique person and has his/her own quirks and challenges just like adults, so understand that and don't blame yourself for their challenging behavior. My first was (and still is) an awful sleeper and I would stress all the time and think I must be doing something wrong and that if only I had done something differently, he would be a better sleeper. I didn't realize till I had my other two that some babies are easier sleepers. All those others parents I had been negatively comparing myself too probably just lucked out and had easier babies. It's really freeing when you don't blame yourself for everything. Not sure if you tend to blame yourself like I do, but just in case. Also, like others said, getting out of the house can help improve your perspective.