Being a single mum can be a stressful and tiring job, as you have double the responsibility and tasks to deal within a day. It’s normal to be stressed sometimes, but you ought to know that you are always giving your best. Having a balance between the private and family life is of great importance to have a nice and happy life with your family.
A level-headed and emotionally secure parent will create a proper basis for your child’s development. You are their role model and they are always looking up to you. If you want to know how to effectively balance your private and family life, read on.
Prioritise your tasks
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When you have a lot on your plate, it can be easy to get lost in a sea of responsibilities. A way to make the most out of your time is to create a list and prioritise your tasks for the day. Tackling the tasks that are the most important and when you have the most energy will get you the furthest in your day.
The smaller and less important tasks can usually be done with less energy so you can leave them for later. Finishing all your important tasks will also give you a sense of accomplishment, knowing you didn’t waste your time. Include time for self-care too.
Simplify your day
Even when you prioritise your daily tasks and responsibilities, it can still be very stressful and unmanageable. You don’t have as much time to finish everything alone when you are a single parent. Sometimes 24 hours is not enough. This means that you should probably cut some of your activities or tasks in your day.
Examples for simplifying your day can be cooking and preparing meals in bulk instead of every meal separately, arranging free time near your house, etc. Create a simpler and more manageable life so you can be more present with your kids.
Create a routine
Routines are a great way to balance every aspect of your life. Routines are done automatically after some time, so you will spend less energy each time you do something. This leaves you with more energy for some fun or relaxing. Schedule your day, and your kids’ day, as much as you can. It will help you be more organized and enjoy the free time you can spend together even more.
A schedule can include meal plans and time, activity time, study/homework time, etc. A schedule and routines will help you stress less because you already know what you have to do in a day. Even when something pops up, you will surely handle it.
Ask for help
If you are a single mum, that doesn’t mean that you should do everything on your own. Create a support group of friends and family members that are willing to sometimes chip in and take care of the kids if you need it. If you know you have someone else to rely on, you will feel less stressed even if something unexpected happens.
Friends and family can also be there for you if you just want to talk or vent. Maybe you can even get some advice. Sometimes you will need help with a problem, and your support will be there for you. Other people could also be a great influence on your children.
Work and commute
Many single moms are also working moms, and you probably have to spend a portion of your day away from home. Going to work can be stressful until you find a good balance of time and routines for your family. Once you do, you will see that your workplace can also be a way to have time for yourself and build new skills.
A commute can be a time where you can read a book or listen to a podcast and learn something new. If you enjoy fresh air, modern electric bikes are an amazing type of transport. You can get a bit of activity while getting everywhere on time. The key is to find enjoyment in everything you do and try to make the most out of every situation.
Get some free time
Free time, as well as me-time, is essential to balancing different parts of your life. Reducing stress levels is important so you can take care of your kids and yourself. Try to set a time for yourself to indulge in activities like working out, doing a hobby, reading a book, etc.
If you can steal a moment in the morning or at night for yourself, your body and mind will thank you. Time for yourself will easily recharge your batteries.
If you implement only one piece of advice it can greatly help you in balancing your life. Single mums are amazing and hard-working and deserve all the respect and happiness in life. Pat yourself on the back for every accomplishment. Staying positive and strong can teach your children very important lessons too, and that is to never give up.
Author Bio: Patrick Adams is a freelance writer and rock-blues fan. When he is not writing about home improvement, he loves to play chess, watch basketball, and play his guitar. More than anything, he loves to spend his time in his garage, repairing appliances and creating stuff from wood.