As a Mom, woman, wife, friend, do you sometimes feel that whatever job you are doing just isn’t good enough? Today I’d like to focus on Mom’s but this really applies to all women who feel the need to always set a good example and nurture those around us. We can easily become inundated with information about eating healthy, living a healthy lifestyle, and the statistics around the health of our children. But it sure can be overwhelming when you are trying to do it all, and frankly, just don’t know where to begin when it comes to making healthier choices. With all the conflicting information, and do’s and don’ts, it can be easy to beat ourselves up for feeling we are not doing a good enough job.
The thing is you probably ARE doing a good job at being a mom, wife, co-worker, etc. by providing love and support to those in your life. Making changes is not an “all or nothing” deal. The best way to make sustainable changes is making them one at a time. I experience it everyday with my clients, and those who work on one small thing at a time are the ones that have long term success. There are no quick fixes, only taking a little time to honor yourself in allowing yourself to make progressive changes. So where do we begin?
Here are a few to tips to start with…
- One of the best things you can do for your children and family is to take a little “me” time. I know that probably goes against your grain, but doing this simple little thing can make all the difference in being calm and present for your family. This can be as simple as lounging outdoors for 30 minutes and indulging in a good novel, getting a Mani Pedi, or going for a little bike ride or walk to enjoy the warm breeze and fresh air while letting your thoughts wander…
- What to drink? This is a dilemma for many when the commercials and grocery store displays draw children in to those brightly colored sports and energy drinks, juices, and soda. For Mother’s Day start a new tradition in your home, infused water! It’s easy and exciting for children to choose their fruit and help prepare it (hint; this will make it more desirable to themJ. You can infuse with fresh fruit, zest of a lemon, lime, or orange, or cucumber. Stay tuned this month for more on drinks.
- Mealtimes where everyone is present…You don’t have to eat out for a special dinner with the family. Making it a priority during the week by having an “electronic free” meal once a day where you all talk and connect, can have wonderful benefits for everyone. You can make it special by eating outdoors, if possible, now that the weather is so beautiful. There is nothing like a fresh breeze and birds chirping while sharing a breakfast or dinner with your loved ones. I enjoy this by myself in the early morning hours to help settle into my day.
Whatever you decide to try, just know that being perfect is not a requirement for being a great mother, wife, friend… I wish you a very Happy Mother’s Day.
