When we become parents, most of us never imagine having to do it alone. It’s an extraordinarily challenging role to take on and requires a lot of resilience and patience. Regardless of how focused and determined you are, it can be nothing short of exhausting. As a single parent, it’s up to you to wear many different hats.
You’re the cook, the chauffeur, and also the house cleaner. Not to mention, it’s up to you that everyone is bathed well dressed, and of course loved. This can leave any single moms feeling stretched to their limits and quite lonely at times.
If this sounds like you, and you’re an exhausted single mom, just know that you’re not alone. There are ways to make it through, and not only survive but thrive under your circumstances. Here are some practical tips to help you look after your children, while also looking after yourself.
Prioritize Yourself
Remember, as much as you might think that rest is a luxury you simply can’t afford, it’s actually a priority. Sometimes it may seem impossible to get a good night’s rest when you’re juggling so many different things and responsibilities, but it’s essential for your well-being and your children’s.
If you allow yourself to get to the point of burnout, it won’t just affect your physical health and possibly cause you to fall ill, it can significantly affect your mental health. When you’re worn thin you’re much less capable of maintaining emotional stability and above all patience.
Single moms often find themselves struggling to find the right words or approach to difficult situations since they’re so spread thin. Try to create a consistent routine that allows you to have a little time.
Set a wind-down time at night where your kids read a story with you or you play a little game together, and after that send them off to bed. Get some rest and time alone, and prioritize your mental health. While you’re at it, update your look, get a little cosmetic work done, or get a new haircut! You deserve to feel good!
Simplify
Sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves to do the best that we can do, that we feel like there’s never enough time to get it all done. However, if you simplify things as much as possible then it will seem much easier to get done. Try to find ways to streamline everything that you’ve got to do, and be as efficient as possible. Small efforts like creating a weekly meal plan and scheduling and catch-up times can be incredibly helpful.
While you’re at it, try to get your children involved by choosing age-appropriate chores for them to help you with. Even if it’s something as simple as picking up their toys, every little bit can help take pressure off of your shoulders.
Ask For Help
Sometimes we may feel too proud to ask for help, however, this is not a job for just one person, particularly if you have multiple children. Don’t be afraid to ask for help by enlisting friends and family members. You deserve it!
Leave a Reply