Alpha mum? I laugh out loud. Far from it! Achievable though? Why not if not?
We already know too well that as moms, we’re always in a race against time, managing office tasks and home chores. Sounds like a whirlwind always, doesn’t it? That’s the mum life hassle for you. Sometimes, we feel like we could get used to it, or other times it feels like we’re stuck.
Either way, don’t worry, because in this blog post, we’ll explore strategies on how to keep your sanity intact, strike that balance, and also slot in some ‘me time’ – because you, awesome ‘alpha mama’, truly deserve it! *wink wink*
We would all agree that there’s always a lot to do, from work related issues, to sorting out your kids’ lives, and dinner preparations, all while trying not to stumble.
But there’s a secret formula– finding the perfect rhythm isn’t about mastering everything. It’s about embracing the graceful yet chaotic life of being a working mom.
It took me roughly 7 months postpartum with baby number 4 to decide that yes indeed, it’s time I embraced the chaotic life once more, rather than fight it, because no one will make up your mind for you. No one would also do it for you, so the earlier you brace up and face everything head on, you’d be the better for it.
It’s all about Priorities– I know your to-do list is always longer than your child’s birthday wishlist, just like mine. I also know that you feel overwhelmed and flustered on most days. Don’t we all?
But think about this… What are your non- negotiables? The priorities that are not open to discussion.
For instance, one of mine is that we don’t exceed the 8:30pm mark on school nights. The girls can’t be found staying awake beyond 8-8:30 pm and they know this.
Recently, I’m even more strict with this rule.
Another is planning my meals better. There are certain meals that I don’t even bother to make on week days anymore because they will disrupt my plans for school meals the next day. These have helped me with prioritizing better.
Right now, I’m actually in the process of making a list of non- negotiable priorities for every member of my household. It’s adding more structure for me.
Even my 7 month old has hers too. She knows that when it’s nap time, she has to go down or face a piggy back situation that will leave her with no other option than to succumb to sleep.
Time Block – Another new routine that has helped me in recent times is this. What do I mean? Ever felt like you’re doing a whole lot at the same time and they’re about to crash?
Set specific time blocks for work tasks, family time, and yes, even self-care, so that you’re not merging all activities into a chaotic blend. Plus, it allows you to be fully present in each moment. This works for me on good days, when the baby of the house, Zee, wants to cooperate too. I just need more practice and self discipline though.
Technology to the Rescue – I now set alarms for literally almost every routine and task. The calendars and reminders are not there just to occupy storage space. Put them to good use. Alarms are not just for wake up calls. There are also countless innovative apps that can help with this. Just find one that suits your needs.
Moments of Zen – You don’t need a week long vacation to find your zen. (Not like it’s even feasible most of the time anyway)
Take micro-breaks throughout the day. Pause for a minute, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. Savor that cup of tea without glancing at the work in front of you. Learn to live in the moment.
These small moments can recharge you surprisingly well.
Laugh! It’s the Best Medicine– Those amusing parenting or work related fails or wins?
Transform them into stories and share a laugh with fellow moms or colleagues as the case may be. A good laugh can melt stress away faster than your secret stash of candy.
Remember, you’re not just a mom – you’re a fierce, fabulous, and beautifully flawed superhero.
XOXO
Yours Truly,
Nikimandi
