Photo Credit: Instagram/regina.daniels/
Being a parent to one's child is a big job that is really beautiful but still on a whole new level how much more being a step-parent to another’s. It can be very challenging but also very possible to be. Not many wake up and their dream or goal in life is to be a step-parent but life happens. Love can find you anywhere and when you truly love someone, you love them and all of their attachments.
If your partner is a single parent and you want to take the relationship to the next level, here are 6 things you should have in mind:
- Preparedness
You should be ready for whatever it is that might come your way. Have it in mind that you love your partner and your relationship is paramount, do not go into the union trying so hard to please your step-child. Let time do the work, you might be one of the lucky ones that have stepchildren that cannot do without them or the other ones that have their stepchildren blame them for every bad thing that has ever happened.
- Understanding
You have to have it in mind that you are not the child's parent, therefore, you have to tread carefully especially when it comes to the discipline of the child and also the life choices the child decides to make. If it is too much for you to take in, let your partner be aware. Always know when to step back.
- Commitment
You need to be fully invested in being the best of lovers first to your partner and then a shining example to your step-child. You have to be committed to including your stepchild in the vision you create for your life with your partner.
- Patience
This is very key as it is what you would need to take you through the rocky stage (if you are one of those who was not so lucky). You have to give your stepchild time to come around at his/her own pace. Do not push it, whenever they are ready you can begin to work on building a strong relationship.
- Love
You have to be ready to love your stepchild. You do not necessarily have to be best friends with your stepchild but you should love them. Do not go into a relationship or marriage to re-enact the role of the wicked step-parent. This is not Walt Disney, this is real life and not everyone has time for another Cinderella story.
- Respect
Above all respect that it is a process and things will work out. If it is a situation where the mother/father of the child is still in the picture, respect their place in the child’s life and the child will be grateful for that.