With a New Year comes the chance to reexamine, relook and rethink the things we do daily. Much of what we do for our kids may not have a lot of wiggle room, so we must reinvent our schedules a little. Here are the ideas I have come up with:
1. Take time for you, every day, even if it is 10 minutes. You cannot be the best parent if you are not taking care of you.
(examples of things you can do; go for a walk, have a cup of tea, read a book, take a bath)
2. Share. Your stories matter, they help teach others and they give us strength. We know we are not alone when we have personal experiences to learn and grow from.
3. Ask for help. If you have a friend running errands that will allow you to stay home, let them do it. If someone you trust offers to watch your child, say yes. I am going to try to have the courage to not wait for them to ask and take the lead to ask. I know I need help and I am not asking.
4. Do something new with your family. Maybe a movie with all kids, or a family walk. Something out of the comfort zone you have created. Be gentle with yourself, you can do it.
5. Celebrate all achievements. Nothing is too small. Shout it out, or whisper it. Either way, you deserve to be heard.
6. Keep it simple, Eliminate those things or people that do not provide you with positive light.
7. Keep organized. Grab a binder, jot down your notes and meeting updates. One spot for all info will allow you to feel prepared and ready for the year ahead. Maybe make a few binders. One for doctors, meds, etc and one for school and activities.
8. Journal. See if you can write a thought a few times a week in a spot that you can hold your thoughts, it will be a nice way to reflect on the good, learn from the bad and share your inner thoughts.
9. Give a hug & kiss, get a hug and kiss and let those in your family know you love them every day.