Being Super Mom Can Be Stressful!

If I were asked to spell the word mom, it would be like this: S-U-P-E-R-W-O-M-A-N. As a mom of 2 boys, ages 19 years old and 23 months (I know! I know! What was I thinking?!?), life can be pretty hectic! My typical day would be to get all the boys up (including husband) in the morning.  I start by attempting to get the baby ready. I say attempt because it is a royal battle trying to get his diaper change, get his clothes on, then figure out where the dog put his shoes while he is running away from me! Now where was I? Oh yes! Make sure everyone has what they need (medication, daily allowance, any needed forms, breakfast, etc.) all before 8 am. Once at work, the daily emails, meetings, and deadlines take over.  Therefore, when the end of the work day comes, I pray that God bestows a miracle upon me so I can unwind. As always, not true. The nightly demands happen: dinner, homework, baths, dishes, trash, laundry, you get the picture! No wonder I can be a total you know what. I'm STRESSED OUT!! What's a mom to do?!? After I was at my wits ends, I did what any geeky college mom (in school too,YIKES!) would do, turn to Google for answers! Here are some things I could change:

• Simplify my life - One of the hardest things about being a mom is learning to prioritize. One of the best things to de-stress is to simplify life. This could mean anything from cutting a few activities out of the week and taking more shortcuts in meal preparation to getting rid of some of the clutter at home and hiring a housekeeper once a week. Take the time to think about what is most important. Focus on those things and say goodbye to the rest.

• Refuel - I have to take care of myself first before I can take care of other people.When one is depleted, there is nothing left to give. Take the time to refuel each day. It's okay to set boundaries and prioritize a little "me" time every day. My form of zen is reading a good book and writing!

• Get regular exercise - Regular exercise boosts everything from energy, mood and immune system. It keeps us mentally focused and helps us sleep better at night. Instead of thinking of daily exercise as just one more thing to fit in, remember how it will improve productivity and reduce the overall stress in  life. I do zumba, yoga, and running to help me out. It works! I am down a couple dress sizes because of it :-). 

• Get pampered - I didn't think I would crave a mani/pedi day. It's not always easy to find the time to do so, but nurturing is important. An afternoon at the spa or a night out with friends might be just what is needed to refuel, recharge and come back ready to become SUPERWOMAN again!  

To read more go to: http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/847555/stress-busting-tips-for-busy-moms