Having confidence in the choice you have made is what will really affect your outlook on your life. The most satisfied at-home mothers are those who believe that they are doing their best. No one can deny that there is something about outside employment that enhances a woman’s self esteem, but as an at-home mom, you can feel the same. Remember that if you are not happy, no one in your family will be.
Check out the following tips to overcome isolation and loneliness and to maintain a balance as an at-home mom:
Keep in touch with other at-home moms. They are most likely to understand and share your needs. Even a ten minute phone conversation with someone in the same situation can decrease feelings of loneliness.
If you have just had a baby and are feeling frustrated that you have no time for yourself, keep in mind that this is a temporary situation. In only five short years your baby will be older and more independent. He will begin to go to school and you will have more time and space for yourself.
Talk to your husband about your feelings of boredom so he can help you overcome them. He could take care of the children while you get out of the house for a walk or to go shopping.
Take a class, preferably in something you don’t know anything about. This will help you challenge your mind and meet new people.
Structure your day; you can choose to do only two hours of housework a day, or decide that whatever isn’t done will just have to wait until tomorrow. This will allow you to make time for other things.
Find a hobby that you enjoy such as reading. You could also join a health club, learn a sport, or learn to paint for example.
If you are an at-home mom, try to make time for yourself during the day whatever the situation is. “You have to be alone doing something for yourself,” says Dr. Goueli.
Consider doing volunteer work. Helping those who are less fortunate will allow you to do work that interests you while benefiting others.
Search the internet. There are many websites specifically for mothers where you will find a lot of parenting information and chat rooms where you can communicate with other mothers.
Some women feel guilty spending money on themselves because they don’t have financial independence or because they don’t make their own money. If your family’s financial situation allows it, consider the possibility of paying yourself a salary. It doesn’t have to be a big amount, but the concept itself is important. By doing so on a regular basis, you will feel that you are spending your own money without any feelings of guilt.
If you miss working, you can start a home business, or find a part-time job that you can do from home. Though you won’t have much contact with others, you will be spending your time doing something you like.
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Reprinted with permission