by Tamika Steward

Created on: April 13, 2010

Motherhood…no one said it would be easy. We cook, we clean, and we help our children with homework. We turn those frowns into smiles and we wipe the tears away when our children are sad.  We are supportive of our children’s goals. We attend their games, school plays, or recitals. We also teach our children how to make responsible decisions.  Sometimes we have to work two jobs to support our children. We lose sleep; we gain weight, and sometimes have to place our goals on hold. We do all of these things out of love for our children. Despite out daily responsibilities, we must ensure that we are happy and stress free. 

There are a number of ways to be a happier mom.  The most important thing a mother should do is to take time out for herself. It is easy to take time out for yourself. One way is to find a hobby. A few years ago, I began dancing. Lessons were once a week for one to two hours and there were many locations available for social dancing. During the weekends, my children would receive their quality time with me either on Friday or Saturday; the other day I would use as a social dance day. On the dance floor, I did not have to think about the pressures of being an instructor, wife, or mother. Regardless of the hobby you choose for yourself, the activity should take your mind off of your daily duties and responsibilities.

Another way to take time out is to pamper yourself at least once a week. Pampering yourself does not require spending a lot of money; the idea is to take some time out to unwind. Here are some ideas. Light some candles around the bath tub and soak in hot water for at least 30 minutes. Give yourself a manicure or pedicure. Visit the beauty salon. You should even buy yourself something.

A final thing you can do to be happier is find a hobby to do with your children. If you have a daughter, you can do ceramics or another form of arts and crafts with her. If you have a son, you can become a video game junkie with them or participate in their favorite sports with them.

As mothers, we must remember that we have to put ourselves first from time to time. We deserve to be happy; and our children will be happy if they see us happy!

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