A common question that I get as a working mom of three crazy kids is....
"How do you do it?"
No two moms are exactly alike and props to each and everyone of you for powering through each day. Life throws us a lot of lemons or in today's case Mondays! At the end of the day, when your children have their homework done, their baths, teeth brushed and are tucked into bed, you did it! It doesn't matter if you are a hot mess mom, a mom who has her shit together or the perfect combination of both, you deserve a pat on the back, a glass of wine, a bath, book time or whatever it is you do to unwind.
I like to think of myself as the middle of the road mom. Some days I am a complete hot mess. Other days, I think to myself "yes you've got this" and I go out the door feeling like a boss. There are some things that keep me sane; things that I should mention to those who wonder how I do it. So let's just dive in!
Number 1 - FamCal
Before I explain, let me preface with the fact that I am not being paid to endorse this app. However it is fantastic and a true lifesaver. How many times have you told your spouse about an upcoming event, appointment, school function, work function, etc. and when the time comes, he or she has forgotten as if you didn't tell them at all? If you're throwing your hands up in the air right now, because you deal with that on the daily, let me say this. You are not alone! This calendar app has saved me from wanting to kick my spouse's butt! This is a place that we can both access, drop each and every obligation onto a shared calendar, categorize them by family member and stay in synch!
I tried the whole giant wall calendar in the kitchen staring you in the face each day. While it's nice to glance at, it just didn't do the trick! We both use our phones constantly for a personal escape as well as for work, so it's a no brainer. That family calendar is always readily accessible. It also has a place for lists for things like household items, personal needs and things for the kids! Give it a shot!
Number 2 - Music
If you don't enjoy a non-stop stream of music, then I suggest avoiding my house. Music in the background via Pandora or Spotify are pretty much a staple for me. Whether I'm getting ready for work in the morning, cleaning house, cooking supper, chilling in the living room, working on the budget, etc., I love music. It lifts my spirits and keeps me sane! In the house, it's country! In the mom mobile, it's 90's, country, hip-hop or whatever suits the mood. You won't find me driving down the road listing to "Baby Shark Do Do Do Do" (it's in your head now isn't it). My kids listen to everything with me! Why not give them some culture for crying out loud?
Number 3 - That Mom Friend
You have to have that one friend (or friends). The friend who no matter what kind of shit show your life is...will always listen, never judge, hold you while you cry or simply say "let's go out for drinks!" We have to have someone to turn to who just gets it.
Number 4 - Target Red Card
Again...I'm not being endorsed here, though I should be! I mean who doesn't want to be endorsed by Target? It's a mom sanctuary! I wish we had one locally and while I don't mind driving to one, the Red Card is freaking awesome. Not only is everything on sale, but the two-day shipping is a lifesaver when it comes to all things for my household. I rarely set foot in the store to get things for the house and it's amazing!
Number 5 - Makeup
Some of you won't agree with me on this one, but I love it. I am a secret hoarder of it and it just makes me feel human. It can take my sleepy, exhausted face and transform it so that I am ready to take on the day. Ipsy! Look it up moms!
Number 6 - Coffee
Go juice! Need I say more? I've become somewhat of a coffee snob and appreciate a good blend! It gets me going in the morning and picks me up in the afternoon!
Number 7 - Social Media
I literally post to social media for a living, so it goes without saying that I love it. I understand it. I appreciate the power of it and it keeps me on my toes as it's ever changing. It's also a fun escape to share my life story as well as network with other moms and marketers. You won't see me giving social media up for lent, but props to those who do!
Number 8 - Meal Planning
Does anyone else struggle with groceries? Whether it's having the right ingredients on hand, constant trips to the store or cereal, because you don't know what to fix? That used to be me! Menu planning not only saved my budget, but I love not having to think about it. I can go to work, come home and choose a dinner option knowing that I have everything on hand to make it happen. Plus, it keeps my kids trying new things (and us parents too)!
Number 9 - A Crazy Night Out
Every six months or so, this momma needs to get out and let her hair down. Whether it's live music and too many drinks or a night out with the girls, I've realized how important it is to take that time for yourself. It's so easy to get caught up in the daily grind. It's easy to fall into a slump, because you feel like all that you do is work, take care of kids, clean house and sleep. I encourage you to do whatever it is that makes you happy or helps you relieve some stress. Go see a concert! Go to the gym! Go out to eat! Go on a day trip! Just go! Trust me when I say, you will be a better mom because of it.
Number 10 - Declutter Your Space
This is one that I realized just recently! I've always been a tidy person when it comes to my home, but I didn't realize the burden that excess stuff can have on your mood. Should my kids be able to cover an entire room with toys? No. Do I need a hundred coffee mugs? No. Clearing out the excess in our living space not only lifted my mom spirits, but believe it or not, my kids actually play more and I pick up less!
I could go on and on, but here you have my top 10 mom survival tips! I want to know what keeps you sane? Drop a comment! And keep doing what you are doing and know that you are doing a great job.
Comments
Post a Comment