4 Things Moms Can Do To Avoid Stress

It's easy to get caught up in your routine and chores every day, but don't let it consume 100% of your life. It can be pretty stressful at times, but if you take it one day at a time and try to roll with the punches, you may be able to avoid stress a little better.
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As a busy (duh) mom, I feel like I'm running around like a chicken with its head cut off most of the time. I have an 8-5 job, I go to school full-time, I have a 2 year old son, AND I try to keep this household functioning most of the time. Trust me when I say- it can be overwhelming. As if the never ending to-do list and constant nagging from my lovely family isn't enough, my mind is a mess of thoughts and tasks that makes me feel like a nut case some days.

There was a time that I let all of that get me down. I played a victim to circumstances, instead of trying to take life by the horns. When I decided enough was enough, I was able to make small changes that have helped my sanity so much. Doing simple things every day that will make your life easier and clear your mind will make all the difference.

Find a Routine and Stick to it

Before becoming a mom, I hated routine. I avoided it at all costs, even. Routine felt so boring and predictable. Who would've thought that one day I would crave predictability most of the time? When you have to get out the door at a certain time with a kid in tow, unpredictability is dangerous. Every day I am prepared for my son's slow as molasses ways, and I know exactly how long it will take me to get to work. Even more than that, our bedtime routine is precious. Bath time, then story time and my son's sleepy conversations every night make my whole day. I love my routine, and it helps keep me sane.

Declutter Your Surroundings

This is the most important thing for me. I feel like a mess when my house is a mess. My boyfriend thinks it's foolish to clean my son's toys up every day, when we know that they will just be thrown around the next day, but it's something I have to do. I think it's important to keep your home, bedroom, and office as clutter-free as possible to really thrive. Getting rid of the extra junk and organizing the important things can make a huge difference. There really is no wrong way to organize, although there are things you shouldn't do while decluttering.

Get Your Alone Time

Mothers are very rarely ever alone, and most of the time I don't mind. I love spending time with my family, but let's face it: sometimes they can get on my nerves. With the constant demands and relentless tantrums, it can wear me down. It's very important that we take some time to ourselves, and get some quality alone time. My time to myself helps me clear my mind and find my inner peace. Alone time looks different to every person. Whether you hit the gym, read a book, or do a little meditating, it's important to find time for your own needs every now and again.

Have Fun!

When you become a mom, some people worry that they won't find time for "fun" anymore. The truth is, your definition of fun changes hugely. Hitting the town with your friends probably sounds more exhausting than fun most days, to be honest. Try to remember that you are a parent, and your little ones will only think you are cool for a short while. Cherish the time they want to spend with you now, because one day that will go away. Put down the broom, put a smile on your face, get down and play with your kids! Not only will you make their day, but you will find your inner kid again and have fun doing it.

It's easy to get caught up in your routine and chores every day, but don't let it consume 100% of your life. It can be pretty stressful at times, but if you take it one day at a time and try to roll with the punches, you may be able to avoid stress a little better. One day you will look back and possibly regret the days you wished away because of your to-do list and the stress it brings. Take a look on the positive side, and give your kids the mom you want to be.

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