Let’s be real; even though people constantly surround us, our lives as working mothers can be lonely and also exhausting and stressful. Here are a few tips on how to cope when those tough times hit.
It’s Okay Not To Be Okay
The first is to know it’s okay to feel unhappy or upset. You don’t have to be happy all the time. You don’t have to be energized all the time. That’s okay. I want you to be happy most of the time, and I’m sure that’s what you want too. But when you hit rough patches, know it’s okay and natural and human. Don’t beat yourself up for not feeling how you think you should feel.
Get Curious About How Those Feelings Are Impacting Your Body
The next tip is to take a moment to pause and see how your feelings are impacting your body. How are those feelings making you feel physically? Are you crunchy inside? Are you angry, are you irritable? Does your neck start to hurt? What is it that’s bothering you? Does your temple throb? Figure out how you physically feel. And then see if there’s something that you can do to offset that.
Move With Intention
Moving with intention can help release that energy from your body. Stretching, a long walk, or yoga could be very beneficial to you during this tough time. Whatever you decide for yourself is fine; just ensure it is helpful. The movement is to help work through those physical feelings that manifest because of the emotional feelings you’re having – see if you can work through them.
Write Down Your Thoughts
The next is to write down the thoughts that are playing in your head. When we are in an extreme state of constant exhaustion, stress, and loneliness, we tend to repeat certain thoughts in our heads. Write them all down.
Challenge Your Thoughts
Now take a moment to question if it’s the thoughts driving you to feel this way or your actual situation. Many times you’re going to find it is the lies your thoughts tell you that are causing the feelings. It’s your thoughts, the story you’re telling yourself that makes you react in this way, and remember if your thoughts aren’t valid, you do not have to believe them. Just because it’s a thought does not make it true.
Ask Yourself, What Other Thoughts Could I Have?
Lastly, ask yourself, “what other thoughts could I have? What other story, a true story, could I be telling myself?” This truth will lead you to feel less lonely, less stressed, or less frustrated, maybe even make me feel happy.
Take Action
Take a moment to think through your current situation. Are you struggling with tiredness, loneliness, or stress? If so, take a moment right now to give yourself permission to feel that way and remember it’s okay not to be okay – cue Marshmello and Demi Lovato.
For more tips on how to handle tough times check out, A Guide To Letting Go Of Stress.
Don’t forget to sign up for my free resource library. You’ll get free printable worksheets, workbooks, and checklists to help with goal setting, time management and self-care for busy moms.
Take action to start believing in yourself at How To Get Unstuck.
