Are you a mother? If so, making a New Year’s resolution may literally be the last thing on your mind. Even still, you should make one. New Year’s resolutions do not have to be big life changing events, like losing weight or getting out of debt. They can still be small and meaningful, like:
1 – Spend More Time with Your Children
If you work outside of the home or have children who are active in sports or other extra curricular activities, it can be difficult to get quality time with your children. If pressed for time, start in small steps. Sneak in 15 minute to read a book, play a game, or just talk with your child. When possible, consider a fun family night, where all members of your family can bond.
2 – Attend a School or Daycare Function
Due to hectic lives and busy schedules, most parents just drop off and pick up their children from school or daycare. A good New Year’s resolution is to attend a school or daycare function at least four times a year. Is your child’s kindergarten class putting on a small play during school? Try to request a few hours off work so that you can attend.
3 – Sort Your Kid’s Belongings
Whether you are the parent of a toddler or teenager, you likely have a lot of kids items accumulated in your home. You may have a collection of old toys, clothes, books, and movies. Sort through these items. If you intend to have more children, sort, box, label, and store. If you do not anticipate needing these things again, donate, sell or host a yard sale.
4 – Take a Break
This may contradict the suggested New Year’s resolution of spending more time with your kids, but most mothers aren’t just moms, but super-moms. Those who aren’t parents and even dads are surprised to learn how much a mother does. So, be sure to take a break yourself. Whether it involves cuddling up with a new book once a month or monthly visits to the spa, do it. Make taking a break your New Year’s resolution.
5 – Ask for Help
As previously stated, many moms are super-moms because most do it all and then some. Yes, some will say it is a mother’s responsibility, but it also your responsibly to care for yourself. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help on occasion. In fact, make it your New Year’s resolution to do so. Ask your husband to watch the kids while you enjoy a day of shopping or pampering. Other alternatives include asking a close friend or family member or hiring a babysitter.
6 – Give Your Relationship Extra Attention
Most claim that romantic relationships slide down the importance scale once children are involved. Yes, your children should come first in every aspect of your life, but don’t let your personal relationship fail. For that reason, schedule monthly date nights.
7 – Spend Time with Friends
In terms of spending time with friends, use your best judgment. You and your college friends may be in different places in your lives. Suggest lunch or coffee. If you must, take steps to develop new friendships with those who share similar interests. Start by joining community groups for parents.
8 – Learn to Let it Go
As a mother, you may want to make sure everything in your life is perfect. You want to make sure your kids are healthy, they get good grades, you make enough money, and that you have a clean house. Yes, these are all important aspects of raising a family, but learn to let the small things go. To tired to do dishes? Don’t let a sink full of dishes bother you for just one night, do them in the morning.
