This post was sponsored by Reebok as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
While being a mom is one of the most immense joys I have ever experienced, it is also the hardest job I have ever had. Between the diaper changes and late night feedings, being a mom can take a toll on your body and mind. I remember feeling so overwhelmed with the birth of my daughter, then when my son came along, feelings of stress and anxiety set in. Over the course of the first six months of being a mom of two, I put things in place to bring more happiness into my life. These range from spoiling myself with new Reebok Trilux shoes to strolling around the block with other mom friends. I call these, my 12 Habits of a Happy Mom:
Let cleaning go
Yes, this type A mama decided to let cleaning go. Before kids, I cleaned our house every week. I had a strict cleaning schedule and everything was always in place. Now, I have learned to accept toys across my living room and little crumbs around my table. We still have a cleaning schedule, it is just not quite as rigorous and we give ourselves lots of grace if toys just don’t get picked up that day.
Take time for yourself
I have learned that I MUST have time for myself. This ranges from morning workouts to a quick trip to Academy to pick up the new Reebok Trilux shoes. I have had my eye on these fashionable shoes for a few weeks. Not only are they fashionable, but they are comfortable, durable and functional – making them perfect for chasing after kiddos this season. For you, it might be reading a book or doing yoga. The important thing is crafting “me time” into your schedule.
Community with other moms
Having a support system of other moms, who are in your stage of life, is equally important. I can’t tell you how many texts have been exchanged between my friends about our crazy kids. We also have play dates, coffee dates and walks around the block! You are not alone!
Get outside
Yes, get some fresh air. You will be surprised how much good fresh air, and a walk around the block in your new Reebok Trilux shoes will do you. I use this as a “reset” for us as well (which I will talk about more in a minute).
Ask for help
Asking for help can be hard at times, but it is vital. You are not superwoman, you can not do it all. Don’t put unrealistic expectations on yourself. If your family lives close, this might mean asking for them to watch your kids for a date night. Or, this might mean hiring a babysitter to get out for a few hours. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Find a balance
This was one of the hardest things for me to implement in my habits to be happy mom. I thought that I should be able to stay at home with my babies, get my work done, take care of our house and essentially do it all… I failed miserably. After many months of trial and error, I found that mother’s morning out was the answer to our balance. In order to be successful in my job and as a mom/wife, I needed two mornings a week to get things done. And, my kids needed two mornings a week to be with other kids, have fun, and learn independence. Find your balance and what works for your family.
Plan
Have a plan. Create a schedule and stick to it. Children really do thrive on a schedule. They respond amazing to familiar things. We have a morning and evening routine, as well as, the same plan for each week (for the most part). My kids know what to expect in the week and we talk about it often.
Say No
Sometimes, you have to say no for the sake of your sanity and your family. This past year as we have been in transition from our move, we have had to say “no” to a lot. It has been extremely hard for us to say no to different hangouts, volunteer opportunities and even vacations, but we have had to prioritize around what our needs are right now. This has been an extremely hard area for me as well, because I love being involved and hate missing things.
Practice gratitude
Think on things that are good and happy. Be thankful for the things that you have and the season that you are currently residing in. When I am struggling with being grateful, I start with letter A and list out something I am thankful for with the letter A. I go all the way to Z and then take a deep breath. It helps me put things into perspective and realize we have so much to be grateful for in life.
Have a reset
Not everyday is just peachy is a mom. They can be long and rough – filled with tears, meltdowns and messes. I have found that a “reset” can really change your whole day. For my babies, a dance party is a reset for us. They both love music and dancing, so we just stop and have a dance party with their favorite songs. Taking a walk around the block in their stroller is also another reset we use. This is where my new Reebok Trilux shoes come in handy too, because they are great for everyday wear.
Morning routine
I have found that when my morning starts out right, the rest of my day tends to follow. Because of this, I have set up a morning routine to help me win at #mommin for the day! I wake up an hour and a half before my babies to start my day. I check my emails, have some quiet time, and work out in Reebok Trilux style! Then, I fill up sippy cups with milk and juice for the morning to have them ready. I prepare breakfast and start working. By the time my babies wake up, I have accomplished so much and am ready to face those hungry bellies.
Choose Joy
Choose joy every day, every moment. I know it is extremely hard when your kids are screaming, dishes are pilled high and you haven’t checked one thing off of your to do list, but try choose joy. Sometimes, for me, this means actively reminding myself of this, because it can get so hard in the day to day moments.
In all seriousness, these 12 habits of a happy mom have truly helped me throughout the past year. I have learned so much about myself and what I need in order to feel good about myself and successful. I have a new confidence and pep in my step. The pep might be my love for my Reebok Trilux shoes, but hey, who’s keeping track?! I am a better mom when I am happy. I am a better wife when I am happy. Happy Mother’s day weekend to all the moms reading and if you are still looking for a last minute gift, grab these beautiful Reebok Trilux tennis shoes from Academy this weekend!
