I used to think being a good parent meant always being calm. So many of my friends and patients tell me they feel worst when they lose their cool with their kids — and yet, we’ve all been there. Tired, hungry, stretched thin from holding it all together for everyone. You too? Me too! What I’ve come to realize is this: kids don’t need perfect parents. They need present ones. Parents who are aware of their own needs — for rest, food, appreciation, validation, connection — and who make space to meet those needs. Because when we can care for ourselves with awareness and compassion, we have that same presence to offer others — especially our children. You can’t give what you don’t have. We talked about how to get your kids to listen on @cbsmornings last week, but a key component of it is also resting and refueling. Swipe to the last slide for the opening of Chapter 7 on being present. Present is one of the 8 Pillars of Practical Optimism-these are the folks who just seem to have it all-and it just might change how you show up for yourself and the people you love. 💛 #optimism #practicaloptimism #doctorsuevarma #cbs #cbsmornings #tvdoctor #nyc