If parents aren't happy, can children not be happy either?

“To make children happy, should parents be happy first?”

The trigger for that thought was a piece of news.

Does parental happiness affect children?

A survey by the University of Tokyo and Benesse found that when parents feel 'very happy,' children are also more likely to feel happy.

Conversely, if parents think they are 'not happy,' it seems children are less likely to feel that way as well.

Furthermore, it has become clear that the current happiness of parents also affects the child's happiness several years later.

If you would like to know more, please be sure to read it.

If parents don't have breathing room, do children feel anxious too?

Six months ago, my husband started working away from home.
The days of raising children alone are harder than I thought.

No time. No breathing room.
Before I knew it, I was always irritable.

I was in no state to treat my child, who was in the 'terrible twos,' with kindness.
And then one day, my child suddenly asked me:

“Mom, are you angry?”

I didn't intend to be angry.
But my child had clearly sensed my tense atmosphere.

What changed in the morning hours

Thinking, 'This won't do,' I made a little time for myself in the morning.

There are days when I just write notes, read a book, or simply drink coffee quietly.

That alone created some breathing room in my feelings.

Even in the midst of difficult days, I became able to find enjoyment.

If parents are happy, children feel secure

In this news, it was introduced that parents who have more hobbies, studies, and conversations with friends and neighbors have higher levels of happiness.

Parents being all smiles might lead to a sense of security for the child.

That is precisely why it is important for parents themselves to have 'time to be happy' first.

If parents smile, children feel secure.

Isn't that something that is convincing both scientifically and intuitively?

Why not start with just 5 minutes?

“I have no breathing room...” “I’m always angry at my child...”

When you feel that way, first try thinking about fulfilling yourself.

Wake up a little earlier in the morning.
Listen to your favorite music.
Slowly drink a warm cup of tea.

Even small things can change how you feel.

I use morning activities and spare moments to fulfill myself.

What did you think about this story?
Is there anything you do to make yourself happy?

Please let me know in the comments.