Keep Trying

Parenting is hard. Potty training can be a long drawn out process that leaves you feeling so discouraged and ready to quit. As a potty training consultant I worry that no one will ever seek my help but rather suffer in silence while they get more and more discouraged.

What is holding you back from seeking help? Is it money? Is it feeling guilty that maybe you don't know what to do? Is it pride? Is it just not the right time? Whatever may be holding you back, don't let it last forever.

Discouragement hits everyone occasionally, and everyone goes through times where they just feel like the odds are never in their own favor. It is easy to notice people around us who seem to succeed at everything and they make it look so easy. There are a few basic responses when others succeed, and we often try to be happy for them but then we silently question why they have all the luck (or skill). We want to succeed too.

The key to overcoming discouragement and moving towards success is consistency. Keep doing the right things. Keep cleaning up accidents and spending countless trips to the bathroom with little or no result. Keep cheering on those around you and in your own household. Seek help as needed. But mostly keep being consistent.

I understand how hard that can be. I really do. I just started a part time job and it is really hard to be consistent with potty training when my work schedule is not consistent. School is about to start which will be another transition I have to balance. I really do get it.

Take the pressure off yourself with being perfect. It isn't attainable. Be consistent when you can and do the best you can muster when times are hard.

As Daniel Tiger likes to sing, "keep trying, and you'll get better. Try try try!"

It applies to parents and those small humans resisting the potty training movement. Keep trying. You'll get better.