Being a single mom requires a mixture of grace, determination, sacrifice, and self-care. Altering the amount of these ingredients results in sadness at best and Mount Vesuvius at worst. Single motherhood is glorious, except when it’s not. When you are up for the 3rd night in a row because your toddler is puking or you can’t remember the last time you went pee by yourself. And hearing the constant “Moooooooom!” in a whine that can only be related to an old dryer is enough to drive you bat-crap crazy.
You get the picture.
I’m not trying to say that moms who are still in a relationship have it easy. But being a single mom is … different, to say the least.
Ever since I became a single mom almost 2 years ago, I’ve paid special attention to my stress level and have used many tools to help me keep stress as low as possible. I know that I’m a better mom when I’m not stressed. I’m a better mom when I’m well rested and have had regular moments to myself. And I’m a better mom when I have effective parenting tools handy.
Here are the top 3 things you should do right now to immediately improve your life as a single mom:
Download these apps from FamilyTech (www.familytech.com)
FamilyTech brings sanity to families of all shapes and sizes. Their line-up of chore management apps makes managing chores easy and fun for every member of the family. Each app allows you to set chores and rewards. When your child completes a chore she earns points toward the rewards. ChoreMonster was created for younger kids Landra is for teens, and Mothershp helps parents manage everything. You can also add multiple parents so if you are co-parenting, your child’s dad can download Mothershp and manage chores at his house as well. You can learn more about the multi-parent feature here on FamilyTech’s blog.
These chore apps focus on positive reinforcement. And since they have a gamification aspect it’s easier to persuade kids to get their chores done. Your kids might even beg to do chores!
Research Connected Parenting
I was introduced to the concept of Connected Parenting when I was pregnant. The most basic goal of Connected Parenting is that you stay connected to your child and build a relationship of trust and respect. Connected Parenting promotes things like breastfeeding, co-sleeping, and baby wearing to develop the connection between parent and baby right away. As the child gets older, connection is continued through positive reinforcement and open communication.
Like adults, children go through massive amounts of stress and emotion during divorce. But unlike adults, children don’t always have the tools necessary to express that pain and emotion. Employing Connected Parenting techniques helps children process their emotions and creates a more peaceful home.
There are too many tools and techniques within the Connected Parenting style to cover in one article. A simple search for “connected parenting” will bring tons of information. You can also join several connected parenting groups on Facebook. I truly believe Connected Parenting has saved my life as a single mom.
Follow The Betty Rocker (www.thebettyrocker.com)
Nutrition and exercise are extremely important to keep you healthy and happy during the stress of divorce and being a single mom. If you are like most women, you probably struggle with getting enough high quality food and exercise. I know I’ve let my health and wellness fall to the side since becoming a single mom. That’s why I’m so happy I found The Betty Rocker.
Bree Argetsinger is the creator of The Betty Rocker. Her energy is contagious and she is extremely relatable and approachable. She does a free 30-Day Challenge that will kick your butt and keep you motivated. She also has resources on eating healthy.
Staying healthy and happy (and sane) is difficult when you are a single mom. You can’t pass the buck. You can’t slow down. You are always on duty. That’s why it’s so important to take care of yourself. Believe me, your children will thank you for using the above tools to make your life less stressful and more peaceful.
Follow Sara Woodard on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfulljourney/
Sara is an ally for heartbroken moms who are going through divorce and need help managing their emotions and rebuilding their confidence. Snag Sara’s free book “50 Reasons Divorce Is The Best Time To Thrive”.