The life of a single mother is packed. Her mornings are spent running around like mad trying to get all the kids ready for school, packing lunches, pouring cereal, gathering things for work, making sure the kids got their homework done, then rushing to get them to the bus on time, and if she’s lucky she may even get out the door in time for work. She spends the day slaving away at her job, then comes home to make dinner, help the kids with homework, do the dishes, get the kids bathed and ready for bed, stories, and finally a few minutes to pick up the house and do it all over again in the morning. She is the sole provider and the sole care taker of these children. She’s doing a tough job to say the least. If you happen to be one of these single mothers here are some tips to get you through your busy day.
First, realize that you can’t do everything. You may feel guilty that you can’t stay home and do all of the things you see other mom’s doing. The sooner you accept this, the better. We’d all like to be able to be home with our children all the time, but realistically as a single parent it just isn’t possible. You have to find a way to put food on the table, and unless you have a rather large inheritance from a sick relative, usually means heading back to work. Don’t dwell on the negative; just accept that this is the reality of the situation right now. Give yourself a break. You’re doing this to give your kids the best life you can give them. Sometimes that means making sacrifices.
Second, quit comparing yourself to other women who have less on their plate. You may have to settle for unmade beds and frozen dinners every once in a while because you simply can’t do it all; and that’s ok. Keep yourself as organized as possible, but don’t get down on yourself because your home isn’t as clean as somebody else’s. Your kids won’t remember the mess. They will be much more concerned with the amount of time you’re down on the floor playing with them. Your kids are only little for a short time, use your down time to make memories with them.
Last, but not least, don’t forget to take a little time for yourself. If you don’t have at least a few minutes to yourself you’ll drive yourself mad. Whether it’s a twenty minute nap or a bubble bath, it is crucial that you take a little time to unwind at the end of the day. Take a deep breath, you’re doing a hard job alone, it’s natural to be a little overwhelmed sometimes.