Life as a parent

They say that becoming a parent transforms your life, and while you may not know how true this statement is, it is fair to say that life changes tremendously once you have a child to care for.

Ranbir Kapoor recently stated to fans that he has stopped smoking and drinking. He had also become a vegetarian and desires to be healthy for Raha. Oscar-winner Catherine Zeta Jones has made a New Year’s goal to quit smoking because she is concerned about the effect her habit would have on her children. Emily Blunt ceased performing nude acts and portraying aggressive or racist characters for youngsters. Paul Mccartney recently revealed that he quit marijuana to avoid setting a terrible example for his children and grandchildren.

Gwyneth Paltrow gave up smoking while pregnant with her first kid.

What causes people’s opinions to shift as they become parents?

Family dynamics after childbirth

When the parents hold their children for the first time their happiness knows no bounds. The parents invest their time and love for their kids. They want to be there for their children’s every first, says Sonnal Pardiwala, Counselling Psychologist Certified Life Coach (ICF) Psychologist. “The parents see it as a chance to relive their childhood. They will go an extra mile to provide their offspring what they missed as a child in terms of love, attention, encouragement or compassion. They develop a sense of protectiveness and try to prevent their kids from any sort of pain and suffering,” adds Sonnal.

Why is there a change before and after the birth of offsprings?

The change from a couple to a family of three, can be one of the biggest transformations you face when you become a parent.

“As a parent, every decision shapes your child’s future, encapsulating the saying, ‘Parenthood is watching your heart walk outside your body’. This is extremely true because we go through so many emotions as parents and have to be concerned about our children’s safety and well-being. Parents have the responsibility of protecting and nurturing their children, which changes their perspectives and transforms them into more mature and discriminating decision-makers,” says Arawat Kumarhe, content writer, who recently became a parent.

Protective instincts

They want to be there for their children because they have a protective instinct. “This is what causes new parents to reconsider their previous lives and make new decisions in favour of giving that to the child that they believe will complete a cycle of care,” says the psychologist adding, “Parents are introduced to new things and become aware of aspects they previously neglected during this specific parenting process. The parents transfer these parenting features as ‘role models’ to another. The concept of ‘you have raised them right’ is deeply embedded in their parental core value, making them more vigilant about instilling the right principles.”

Being a role model

When it comes to bad habits, drinking and smoking are the most prevalent issues that new parents must deal with. “While passive smoking can affect the lives of your kids, excessive drinking or alcohol abuse can have a more damaging effect on families and relationships. As a new parent, it may take some time to adjust to a better and healthier lifestyle, but once you do, you will love every day, every moment with your children. You must become a role model for your children, and this process begins the moment you become a parent,” says Arawat.

“Responsibility plays a significant role in this journey,” says Nikky Gupta, Co-Founder & CEO of Teamwork Communications Group and parent of a 5-year-old. “Knowing that I am now responsible for the growth and development of another human being is a frightening realisation. It forces me to rethink my habits and eliminate those that could threaten my children. It is a conscious effort to create a safe and supportive environment. The delicate balance of parental, personal, and professional life necessitates decisions that are best for my children,” adds Nikky.
Ranbir quitting vices and Emily’s career choices showcase their commitment to positive parenting. “It’s all about making choices that secure a better future for our children,” says Nikky.

A love like no other

“A child grows up feeling the world is safe when parents strive to be their best, creating a deep sense of love and appreciation,” says Sonnal.