Motherhood is not an easy job no matter what situation you’re in. Whether you have 1 child or 6. Whether you’re a working mom, stay-at-home-mom, or a work-at-home-mom it is tough on all of us. How it is tough on us however can be different. What situations make us tired, overwhelmed or burned out can be different for each person. How can we avoid this burnout? What can we do to make sure we are taking care of ourselves while raising children?
Make Sleep a Priority
One of the first lessons I learned while pregnant with my first child I remember today, post-partum depression is higher among those who are not getting enough sleep. Make sure you’re taking any chance you have to sleep. This means letting things go at times. Perhaps when the babies get to bed at night, instead of staying up to do dishes, laundry, or other cleaning, just go to bed yourself.
Eat Well
Having fuel to keep you going is important. Take time to make sure you’re able to eat. As we get busy it can be very easy to forget to eat. Prepare meals ahead of time, make it easy to grab healthy choices as you run about your day.
Speak with Friends
Find someone or a group of people you can talk to and trust. If you do not have a close friend or family member to talk to consider finding a therapist. The act of being able to discuss your frustrations can be extremely relieving of anxiety, depression, and general burnout feelings.
Maintain an Identity Outside of Motherhood
Maintaining some sort of identity outside of motherhood is important for your own wellbeing. Feeling like motherhood is all you have can be isolating. Find a hobby, go out with friends or family members, do something on a regular basis that is without your kids.
Say No
Remember it is okay to say “no” and it is important to do so. Do not let others run you ragged. If you’re unable to find time for something, without creating burnout then it’s best you say no. Prioritize yourself, your kids, and your spouse first. It’s okay to want to help others but make sure you’re not doing too much.
Ask for Help
Do not be afraid to ask others for help when you need. You cannot and should not ever be expected to do everything on your own. Take help from others and do not feel guilty about it. Take a break and relax when necessary.
Schedule a Date Night
Make sure you find time for you and your spouse to go out without the kids. Schedule a date night where you’re able to take at least some of the time and talk. Find conversation topics that are not centered around the kids.
Make a List
Prioritize what needs to be done when. If something can wait in order for you to relax, then do so, let some tasks on the list move to the next day and get to bed early. Allow yourself to push things off in a manner that allows you to prioritize your own wellbeing.
How do you cope as you’re starting to feel burned out? What helps you relax and recharge?
Sarah
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