There is no doubt that being a parent can be stressful no matter if you are a stay-at-home mom or a working mom. There are days that I think that being a stay-at-home mom would be easier, but then I talk to my friends that do just that and they too seemed stressed.
At the end of the day, stress is stress no matter one’s home/work situation.
I work full time at a job that I really enjoy. Every day is different, but every morning and evening seems to be a challenge with a toddler during the workweek if I don’t find ways to overcome and manage stress. Just take a peek at my schedule for one day and it will make your head spin. If I don’t manage my time and plan for the week I am a big mess – especially now that we are in the middle of moving. How much stress can one take on even if it is ‘happy’ stress? Not a lot!
Ways to Overcome Stress as a Working Mom
Time Management
Find a system that works for you and your family. For my family, it’s a calendar that my husband and I share digitally and a paper calendar that I keep up with myself for work and blogging. I have two calendars to help me remember things. It seems like a lot, but it works for me. We also have a Days of the Week Calendar in our pantry to keep us organized for meal planning.
We are a calendar-obsessed family!
I also ask Siri to remind me to do the random things that pop up in my head throughout my day.
Walking
Sometimes finding a good 15 minutes after a long day at work to walk with my family cures all my woes. It can be hard to get into a routine, but we all come back feeling happier after a long walk. If my day is packed, I try my hardest to walk more during the day at work by taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Asking for Help When you Need It
There are times I need help, but I simply hate to ask others for help. I have learned that if someone offers to help me I should take them up on their offer and get over the guilt. If I need help from my spouse, neighbor, or friend now I ask and don’t look back. The worst they can say is, “No thank you.”
Getting Enough Sleep
Easier said than done, I know, but sleep is so important. When I don’t sleep enough I am more likely to stress out about little things. We try hard to go to bed early when we have to be up at the crack of dawn the next day.
Stress happens and it’s up to you to manage it so it doesn’t completely wreak havoc on your life. If you don’t find a way to overcome or deal with stress, it can be debilitating on your mind and body. Do yourself a favor and find a few hours in your week to plan for your week to eliminate stress. Work smarter, not harder, and always find time to snack even if you are on-the-go. Your body and stomach will thank you!
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