8 Rules Smart Moms Live By
- Great ideas for stress relief
- Important tips on health and well-being
- Motivational tricks for a better mindset
Most articles for moms focus on the things that children need in order to be happy and productive. These advice columns are certainly worth reading, and can offer lots of great insights. But your needs, as a mom, are no less important. Take a moment to reflect on your habits and your lifestyle. The following rules can help to ensure that your needs are being recognized and balanced.
Turn Off the Noise
Sometimes a favorite sitcom can help you to unwind after a hectic day at work. And listening to the radio makes weekend chores a lot more fun. At other times, background noise only adds to your stress level. When TVs and video games are in effect, you have to repeat yourself and raise your voice. Instead of competing for kids’ attention, schedule regular “quiet hours” in your home. Power off all those electronic noisemakers, and enjoy the silence with a good book.
Eat in Moderation
More and more Americans are overweight. Medical experts are quick to list the health problems that can arise from excess pounds. On the other hand, lots of women struggle with extreme diets and weight loss plans that can be equally unhealthy. The best rule of thumb is to practice moderation. The occasional brownie or cheeseburger won’t ruin your health. Remember that your body is a machine; it needs proper fuel (like proteins and colorful vegetables) to operate efficiently. Also remember that it’s okay to enjoy your food. When you eat too much or too little, you’re not really tasting or enjoying anything. You’ll feel more satisfied if you make a point to eat meals while sitting at a table and sharing food with others. Another tip: try not to eat in the car or while watching TV.
Get a Daily Dose of Nature
Mother Nature is a powerful force – one that we’ve all experienced during blizzards, hurricanes, or tornadoes. But nature can provide a positive influence, too. Colorful sunsets, water views, and leafy trees are all lovely and inspiring. For a major dose of peace and tranquility, take a walk to your local town park. Fifteen minutes of outside activity can dramatically lift your spirits. Deep breaths of fresh air are especially effective when it comes to easing stress and anxiety.
Create Your Own Path to Success
It’s okay to seek inspiration and advice from your friends and coworkers, but remember that your path to success is as unique as your DNA. What works for your neighbor might not work for you. This is true when it comes to weight loss plans, college degree plans, raising your children, and much more. Exercise your own insight and intuition. Pay attention to the things that are working in your life and the areas where you need to make improvements. There are too many variables in life to completely copy the path someone else has taken. Plus, there is more pride and joy involved in creating your own individual path to success.
Learn from Mistakes
You will make mistakes. Even the kindest, most intelligent people can’t avoid the occasional misstep. But mistakes can be incredibly useful. A wrong turn might lead you to a cool discovery. A wrong ingredient might improve your old cookie recipe. And a misunderstanding with a neighbor might lead to a stronger friendship. In any case, you have to be willing to see the positive opportunities that arise from goofs and slip-ups. Instead of dwelling on your mistakes, focus on what you can learn from them, and move on.
Listen to Your Body
Mothers are the most selfless people on earth. We put our own needs aside for our children and our families. It’s okay to skip breakfast now and then in order to get the kids to the school bus on time, but other necessities should not be ignored. If you have chronic pain, regular headaches, or other recurring symptoms, you should make time to see a doctor. There’s a fine line between “pushing yourself” and “punishing yourself.” Listen to your body’s cues and signals. If something seems unusual, get it checked out.
Focus on the Positive
Life is tough, and we all have bad days. Sometimes a series of unfortunate events can lead to major discouragement. You might even start to feel like the whole world is against you. But don’t fall into the trap of self-pity. For one thing, it’s important to remember that you are better off than many thousands of people who are homeless, hungry, or suffering from illness. For another thing, it’s difficult to improve any circumstance when you have a negative attitude. So don’t get down on yourself. Channel your frustration into drive and determination. And remember to laugh at least once a day.
Pamper Yourself
Every mom deserves some scheduled alone time – a time to regroup and relax. Pampering doesn’t have to be expensive, either. There are plenty of DIY spa treatments – like pedicures and mineral baths – that you can master on your own. Reading a book or writing in your journal are also smart, therapeutic indulgences. The important thing is to do something that makes you feel good about yourself, at least once each week. Older children can help you by looking after their younger siblings or bringing you a cup of tea. And remember: don’t put off your “me time” until you’re already at your wit’s end. Make pampering a part of your regular routine – just like cooking and cleaning. You’ll be happier, and your family will appreciate the revived you.
Jennifer Applin is a freelance writer and will soon be the mother of six young children born within a 5-year span. Her writing focuses on strategies for busy parents to juggle it all.
Comments for 8 Rules Smart Moms Live By:
1 comment(s)
CandidCandora On Sunday, August 22 2010
I really appreciate these tips! Thanks Jennifer Applin! : ) I guess with 6 children born within five years, there's no need to ask if these 8 tips work for you, huh? Keep writing though...