How can a stay-at-home mom handle stress?

It’s a common misconception that stay-at-home parents have it easy at home, but the reality is contradictory. Being at home is challenging and frustrating. Lots of work to do, errands to run, to make life perfect for husband and kids while still being worthy in their eyes at the end of the day. A stay at home mom’s life is full of unexpected time changes. Three Ways to Reduce Stress and Unnecessary Freaking Out:

Plan: The life of a stay-at-home mom is all about meeting other people’s schedules. In such a case, it is imperative to plan meals at least 2-3 days in advance. This helps stock up on grocery items and prep early if needed. Planning and stocking up in advance is also very important because sudden problems arise anytime at home with any member: unexpected appointment, tests, illness or sudden guests. Planning ahead saves precious time and preserves sanity while reflecting on your efficiency. If you’re efficient, that reduces most of the stress.

Take a break: For a stay at home mom, stress doesn’t come from working all day or taking care of everyone’s needs, stress is increased by not taking ‘me time’. Respect yourself, make sure you relax from daily tasks for at least 1-2 hours a day. Everything else can wait. Take a class, a yoga session, a long walk, get a massage, read a book, read the news, keep up to date, or just sit peacefully and meditate. Spending time on social networks (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) generates gossip and does not allow for complete mental rest. Don’t get attached to soap operas, they are absolutely useless and make you boring, old and intriguing. Instead, take a short hobby course online or learn something from videos posted on YouTube. Set aside time for self-introspection. Separating yourself mentally and physically from everyday tasks can be rejuvenating for a stay at home mom.

Set priorities: learn to say ‘NO’. There are times when there are unexpected and unwanted guests or demands from the family. It’s okay to say ‘No’ when you feel like it’s hard for you. It’s important to be happy inside, only then can you meet everyone’s pressing schedules. People respect you if your priorities are set. Experience tells me that people will bypass you if you let them. Be assertive, albeit in a subtle way.

There are two ways to do things: a nice and kind way and a rude and angry way. The way you choose to react reflects your character and builds your image. After all, it’s about keeping peace within yourself, so don’t do things you might regret at the end of the day. Be honest with yourself. It’s very satisfying to see your family happy and comfortable, but don’t forget that you are the oil that keeps the family machine running, so take care of yourself!

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