Last updated on July 9th, 2024 at 06:57 am
As a stay-at-home mom, you’re the CEO of your household, juggling tantrums, mealtimes, and everything in between. Anyone who has been in this role know that it can be so difficult to manage all the chaos as the only adult at home all day. But amidst the chaos, remember, your well-being is pivotal.
Think of it this way: you can’t pour from an empty cup. It can be hard to put yourself first when you are tasked with taking care of tiny humans, but making sure you are at your best first is so important in your role as a parent. Today we are going to talk about all the important tips I have for you to maintain your sanity as a stay-at-home mom. Because no one ever said this job was going to be easy, just that it was worth it!
Before diving into the how-to’s of maintaining sanity (we’ll get there, promise!), understand this – self-care for moms, establishing a routine, and indulging in a side hustle or two isn’t selfish. It’s essential.
It’s about being the best version of you, for you, and those little humans that rely so dearly on you. So, let’s embark on this journey of mastering motherhood together, shall we? A bit of self-care, a sprinkle of mental health awareness, and voilà! The perfect recipe for a thriving and loving life as a stay-at-home mom.
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11 Tips To Stay Sane As A Stay-At-Home Mom
1. Self Care is Not Selfish
I know the idea of self-care is beaten into us and we all just roll our eyes at it. Because who has time to think about themselves where there are children running around everywhere. But it truly is so important, that’s why I put it number 1!
It’s the magic ingredient that stops you from feeling like you’re stuck on a never-ending treadmill. And you know what? Self-care isn’t the same for everyone.
Whether it’s diving into a good book, enjoying a bubble bath without the rubber duckies, or simply savoring a quiet cup of your favorite drink. Maybe it’s finally booking that haircut or keeping up with your regular dentist and doctors appointments. These things aren’t just nice-to-haves; they’re necessities.
Trust me, carving out some time for yourself in the midst of motherhood not only boosts your mental well-being but also feels like hitting the reset button that reminds you of your humanity. And when you’re feeling recharged, you’re even more of a superhero mom than you realize. So, yes, amidst the chaos of being a stay-at-home mom, make sure self-care is your standing ovation.
2. Dressing Up for Success
Trust me, I’ve seen firsthand—ditching the pajamas for something a tad more put-together can work wonders for your mood and productivity. You see, when you make an effort to dress up a bit, even if it’s just substituting those sweatpants for jeans and a nice top, it’s like telling your mind, “Hey, we’ve got things to accomplish today!”
And dressing up really doesn’t have to mean anything fancy. Trust me I know that you will likely spend your day with just kids and never see another adult until your spouse gets home. But putting on a nice pair of jeans and a top that you know makes you look good can really boost your self-confidence and prepare you to take on the day.
This simple switch gears your mental state from sluggish to energetic, boosting those feel-good vibes throughout the day. And who doesn’t want that?
And getting yourself ready in the morning doesn’t have to take much time at all! A quick splash of water on your face, a dab of moisturizer, and a brush through your hair can be your basic yet effective armor against feeling blah. It’s totally optional, but even just a bit of mascara and concealer makes a world of difference for me when I pass by mirrors throughout the day.
I promise, sprinkling these tiny acts of self-care into your routine can elevate not just your look, but your whole outlook on being a stay-at-home mom. Believe me, it’s a game-changer for your mental health.
3. Finding Time for Hobbies
Let’s be honest, being a stay-at-home-mom often feels like you’re juggling with no end in sight. But hear me out, finding time for hobbies isn’t just about having fun. It’s a lifeline to sanity. I know, I know, “time” and “hobbies” might seem like words from a foreign language. Yet, incorporating them isn’t as daunting as it sounds.
Think of hobbies as your secret escape door—a way to reclaim a piece of yourself amidst the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or even reading a good book, these activities can add a bit of joy and satisfaction into your daily routine, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. And believe me, expressing yourself through hobbies isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential.
So, I encourage you to take that leap and explore new hobbies or reignite old passions. Trust me, your mental health will thank you, and you’ll be modeling the importance of self-care and personal development for your little ones.
4. Stay Active
We all know that staying active is an important part of mental health care and keeping our bodies healthy. But how many of us actually make it a priority?
The secret to keeping your sanity intact might just lie in those moments of stretching your legs and breathing in some fresh air. Studies show that exercising moderately just 30 minutes each day can greatly improve your cognitive function, improve sleep quality, and increase your energy levels among many other benefits.
While it is great if your partner can watch your children or you can get up before your kids to get your exercise in, sometimes that is not possible. Getting 30 minutes of exercise can sound daunting, but really don’t over think it. Here are some great ways you can get your body moving while at home with your kids:
- Go for a walk outside with your kids
- Do an at home workout video or some simple body weight exercises during nap time
- Have a dance party
- Use a baby carrier or sling and get some squats and lunges in while doing regular household chores
- Take a bike ride
- Create an outdoor obstacle course and join in
Regular exercise is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and it is an important habit to model for your children. While it can be hard to squeeze in to your daily schedule, if you do I promise it will make a huge difference in your physical and mental health.
5. Stay Connected With Friends
In the whirlwind of stay-at-home mom life, maintaining relationships is crucial for staying sane and finding joy. One essential strategy is to schedule play dates with moms whose kids are the same age. These gatherings provide not only support and camaraderie but also valuable social interaction for your little ones.
Additionally, consider joining local or online play date groups, where regular meetups, outings, and activities are organized. These communities offer opportunities to bond with other moms and expose your children to new experiences. Remember, other moms are struggling too, so being there as a support to each other is vital.
Finally, make time for a girls’ night out with your friends to unwind and reconnect. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a fun outing, prioritizing adult conversation and laughter is essential for your well-being outside of parenting. By nurturing these relationships, you’ll find the support, companionship, and break from motherhood’s demands that you need to thrive.
6. Leave The House Every Day
Listen, stepping out of your home space can work wonders for your mental health. I’m talking about daily outings that shake up the routine. One too many times I have thought we’d be just fine hangout at home all day because I really didn’t have an excuse for us to leave, and by nap time I was ready to rip all my hair out!
These outings don’t need to be anything crazy. It could be something low-key like heading to the library or just a walk around the block with your littles. Do you need just one item at the grocery store for dinner? You may think you can go without, but I don’t care. Go get it! It helps break up the day and gives you even a small bit of adult interaction that I know you’ve been craving.
The key here is getting that fresh air and a change of scenery, even if it’s brief. These mini escapes can be uplifting for both you and your kids. So, give it a go—embrace the outdoors or any simple change of environment each day. Trust me, your spirit will thank you.
7. Wake Up Before Your Kids
I have never been a morning person. Never have been, never will be. But my life was changed when I started making it a priority to wake up early before my kids. Even if it is just 20 minutes, that gives me the time to do whatever I need to do before the get really gets started.
Think about all the things you could accomplish with a little bit of child free time! Take a shower in peace, get some exercise in, or enjoy your breakfast without little hands trying to eat all of it.
Now I am not saying that you should get up early to start accomplishing tasks for the day. In the life of a mom there will always be cleaning to do, laundry to fold, and a never-ending to-do list. If that makes you happy you are more than welcome to, that’s just not the purpose of this tip. What I am saying is give yourself some time to do something for you before the next 12 hours of your life are dedicated to your children.
You can mediate, read a book, catch up on the Bachelor, or whatever else you want to do. Starting your morning off with something for your before your kids wake up can help your day start off on a positive note and help your overall well-being as a stay at home mom.
8. Start a Side Hustle and Earn Your Own Money
Starting a small side hustle from home can be a game-changer for stay-at-home moms seeking to earn extra income while managing household responsibilities. Begin by identifying your skills and passions, whether it’s writing, crafting, or organizing, and research market demand in those areas. Utilize online platforms like Etsy, Upwork, or social media to showcase your products or services and reach potential customers. Keep your side hustle manageable by starting small and creating a simple business plan outlining your goals and strategies.
Here are some ideas of side hustles you can start from home today:
- Start a blog
- Start an etsy shop
- Market your photography skills
- Start your own freelance writing or graphic design business
- Sell baked goods out of your home
This section is not meant to stress you out. I know one of the biggest challenges of being a stay-at-home mom is finding the time to do everything in life and adding a side hustle can be difficult. But think of it more from the lens of empowerment. Find something that you already enjoy doing that you can make a small income with.
This income can help you explore other passions, do more for yourself, and help your family live out any dreams you have. It really isn’t about the money, but having something you are passionate about that drives you and uses the skills you already have in a productive way.
In your search for what side hustle may be right for you, please avoid MLM type companies. While their pitches may be enticing, many try to market themselves specifically to stay-at-home parents with the promise of extra income but in reality, you end up spending more than you earn.
There are many awesome opportunities out there, you just need to know where to look.
9. Teach Your Children To Play Independently
Encouraging independent play in your children is not only beneficial for their development but also crucial for maintaining your sanity as a stay-at-home mom. Here are some practical tips to foster independent play:
- Create a stimulating play environment with a variety of toys and materials.
- Establish consistent routines that include designated independent playtime.
- Start with short play sessions and gradually increase the duration over time.
- Encourage self-directed activities and allow your children to explore their interests.
- Be present but avoid micromanaging their play, allowing them to problem-solve on their own.
- Model independent behavior by engaging in your own activities while they play.
- Don’t react immediately when they ask for something, doing so teaches them that you will drop what you are doing every time.
- Stay nearby so you can jump in if necessary and so your kids feel comfortable that you are close if they need you
By teaching your kids the value of independent play, you empower them to become more self-sufficient and confident, while also giving yourself some much-needed time to recharge and take care of your own needs as a mom.
10. Have A Schedule For Your Day
Scheduling life is hard with kids, especially little ones, but having a schedule for your day before it starts can help you stay sane when you are in the thick of it. And when I say schedule, I am talking super rough. Like in the morning we will have breakfast and play for a little while before running errands, or after nap time we will head to the park. Just an idea of activities for the day so you don’t have to come up with entertainment on the spot when you are already frustrated.
Having a balance between structure and flexibility is key. Sure, plans might change, but having an idea of what’s coming up can make a big difference. And try to involve your kids in these plans where you can. Ask them what they’d like to do – go to the park or story time at the library? Getting them involved not only makes them feel important but also takes some pressure off you.
Remember, staying flexible is key because, let’s face it, with kids, there’s always something unexpected. But having a simple plan? That’s your secret weapon to staying cool and keeping the kiddos entertained as a stay-at-home mom.
11. Declutter Your Life and Home
I’ve always believed in the power of a clutter-free environment for boosting mental health. It’s like magic – the less clutter there is, the clearer we think. But here’s the thing: decluttering doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore.
Make it a family affair! Assign everyone in the house a ‘declutter day’ project, even if it’s just sorting through a drawer or cleaning out a closet. You’ll be surprised at how a few minutes of organizing can breathe fresh air into your home and mind. Keep it simple, keep it fun – put on some music, set a timer, and make a game out of it. Before you know it, your space will transform into a serene haven.
Remember, a decluttered space reflects a decluttered mind, and as a stay-at-home mom, finding peace in your surroundings can make all the difference in staying sane.
Final Thoughts On Staying Sane as a Stay-At-Home Mom
Being a stay-at-home mom is no walk in the park, but I hope these tips have given you some new tricks up your sleeve to tackle the daily chaos with a little more grace and a lot less stress.
Remember, even implementing just a couple of these strategies can make a world of difference in how your day unfolds. From setting up a basic schedule to embracing independent play and decluttering your space, these small changes can lead to big improvements in your mental health and overall well-being.
But here’s the real kicker: taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. You owe it to yourself and your kiddos to prioritize your own needs and recharge your batteries regularly. Whether it’s carving out some me-time for a bubble bath, catching up with friends over a quick dessert date, or simply taking a few deep breaths to reset when things get hectic, don’t forget to fill your cup so you can pour into theirs.
So hang in there, mama. You’re doing an amazing job, even on the days when it feels like everything is spiraling out of control. Keep shining bright, taking care of you, and being the incredible mom your kiddos deserve. You’ve got this!
This is great! Thanks for sharing.
Such an insightful post and reminder for mom’s to find something they enjoy. Thanks for sharing!
These are great tips! Even though I’m not a “new mom” (son is 7) I still feel new & I’m learning new things everyday so thank you for sharing this!
So many good ideas! Thanks for sharing!
As a stay at home mom with 4 kids, I totally resonate with this article! All of these tips are excellent advice for mothers who want to stay sane. I can tell on the days that I don’t implement these tips because we are all grumpier and less energetic overall. Thanks for helping fellow moms on their journey through motherhood 🙂