Thanks to Robert Nickell, Dad of 6, author of the DaddyScrubsBlog, and a.k.a. Mr. Daddy for this Guest Post – never to late to make some New Year’s Resolutions…

From his 25 years’ experience as a daddy, Nickell has compiled the following list of resolutions that have made a difference for himself and his family, and encourages parents to try adopting them into their lives for 2012.

1.  Be Patient
“I know as well as anyone, that being a parent of small children (and big kids, too!) can often mean having a short fuse and saying “no!” to simple requests, just out of frustration. Making an effort to take a step back, be in the moment and look at a situation from our children’s perspective will go a long way in helping us all to be a little more patient. Our children (no matter what age) are exploring, learning and growing everyday, and that’s certainly no easy feat.”

2.  Just Be
“Life as a parent can get a little crazy – to say the least. I often feel I’m running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to keep up with everything – including my sanity. This year, take a moment to just be; enjoy every second you get to spend with your child as these times are fleeting, and before you know it they’ll be gone. Children are spectacular, so cherish being a parent as often as possible.”

3.  Take Time for Yourself
“It can be difficult to take time out for yourself, as a parent, but it is one of the most important things you can do. Plan out a ‘date night’ for you and your partner or a coffee meeting with a friend once a week or month – whatever you can squeeze in. Taking time for you will make all the difference in ensuring your child has a healthy, even-keeled parent[s] looking out for them.”

4.  Trust In Yourself
“It’s easy to second-guess what you’re doing as a parent. Chances are, if you care enough to wonder or worry whether or not you’re doing it right – you’re probably doing a pretty good job. Every parent is different, so just focus on what is most important in your life, and try to hold onto that vision every single day.”

5.  Spend More Time Together as a Family
“Family meals like breakfast and dinner seem the most traditional route for gathering and spending time together as a family. Game nights are also great, as you get smiles, laughter and lots of personalities. Going for a walk or a bike ride as a family is also a wonderful way to bond while staying healthy. There are lots of options available, so see what works best for your family and, as they say – just do it!”

Nickell adds, “No matter what you resolve for the New Year, remember to simply be the best person you can be.”

Nickell contributes to national syndicated talk shows and daytime television shows including “Good Morning L.A.,” “Good Morning Texas,” “Daytime TV,” WZZM 13 and KSBI TV, as well as national parenting magazines and websites including Baby Couture Magazine, Oh Baby! Magazine, City Parent Magazine and Homeschooling Parent.

Nickell is also the founder of DaddyScrubs, a line of fashionable hospital attire for the expectant father to wear during labor and delivery and the Daddyscrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting and the latest baby and kids gear, all from a Dad’s perspective.