Every new year brings a fresh chance to hit the reset button — including how you show up as a parent. But let's be real: parenting is hard, exhausting, and often thankless. If you coast through it, thinking your kids will "figure it out," you're setting everyone up for frustration and chaos. Kids need more than just food and shelter; they need consistent guidance, love, and boundaries; it's intentional parenting that moves mountains.

Because when you slack off, what you get is exactly what you put in — kids who push limits, test boundaries, and fill the void left by absent parenting.

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It's easy to slip into complacency. Maybe it's been a long day, or your schedule feels relentless. Maybe you convince yourself that letting kids "run free" is healthy or that they just need space to express themselves. But here's the truth: unchecked freedom without clear limits is a breeding ground for problems. It's not love or respect to let them run wild; it's neglect disguised as kindness.

Parenting with intention doesn't mean you have to be perfect or never tired. It means showing up consistently with unconditional love, firm boundaries, attentive teaching, and yes, forgiveness when mistakes happen — for both them and yourself.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Parent intentionally!

So if you want your kids to grow into adults who impact the world in a meaningful way, here are three no-excuses moves every parent can make — even on the rough days:

Set Clear Boundaries and Follow Through Boundaries aren't about control; they're about safety and structure. When kids know the line and see you consistently enforce it, they gain a sense of security and learn responsibility. Maybe it's screen time limits, chores, or manners at the dinner table — whatever it is, be firm, clear, and consistent. If you say no, mean no. When boundaries are shaky, so is their confidence and respect for rules.
Invest Daily Time to Teach and Connect Quality time isn't just about being in the same room. It's about focused, intentional moments. You don't need an hour; ten minutes of undivided attention can change the day. Teach them something — how to tie a shoe, handle frustration, or make wise choices. Ask open questions and listen. This is how you build trust and teach life skills that stick long after childhood.
Forgive Fast — But Don't Excuse Bad Behavior Mistakes will happen. You will slip up, and so will your kids. When they mess up, hold them accountable—but always with grace. A parent who forgives and follows through teaches resilience and humility. And don't forget to forgive yourself. Parenting fatigue is real; but giving yourself grace means you'll show up stronger tomorrow.

At the end of the day, the energy and effort you pour into your parenting show up in your child's character and the living legacy they create.

Lazy parenting might look easier now, but it costs far more in the long run — as you trade real influence for temporary peace.

This new year, commit to the hard stuff. Show up. Set limits. Connect. Forgive. Because what you put in now is what you — and your child — will get out forever. No shortcuts, no excuses. Just real, intentional parenting that moves mountains.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"

#ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent

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Cover Art by Jenny Hamson

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Music by Mandisa - Overcomer

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Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Sunday Newspaper Panel 4th January