You’ve seen her. That cheerful mom, who seems to have it all together and actually seems happy with her life?…. Is she for real?
Do happy moms really exist or are they just a figment of our imagination?
Well, according to research and based on personal experience these women really do exist. So what are they doing that the rest of us are not.
1. They talk to other moms
I’ll be the first to admit that opening up to others about your personal problems is usually not a winning strategy, except in this case. Motherhood while wonderful is full of challenges. Along the way each and every one of us will be faced with a problem we don’t have the answers to like the best ways of dealing with our children’s behavior, problems they may be having in school, or questions about their education.
While there’s a wealth of information out there, talking to other moms is a unique and valuable source of information. It allows us to tap into the knowledge and experience of other women who’ve been through it and who can help us through it. Through them you’ll get useful advice, emotional support, feel less isolated, and reassurance from others that this too shall pass.
2. They talk to God
I know you’ve heard the saying that prayer changes things. Well it does.
In a recent study done by the National Institutes of Health, doctors found that people who prayed were 40% less likely to have high blood pressure than those who don’t. In another study, doctors also found that people who pray have higher levels of dopamine in their bodies, a brain chemical that is associated with feelings of joy and well-being. So if you really want to be a happier mom. Start praying!
3. They exercise
Now just when you thought we were all done with New Year’s resolutions here comes that word again – exercise, but the value of exercise to your physical and emotional well-being cannot be said enough and is a medical fact.
Exercise helps you to have more energy and makes you better able to deal with whatever life throws at you. It also releases endorphins in your body, a brain chemical that reduces stress and makes you feel happy. So take a Zumba class or yoga or go long walks with a friend regularly if you want a happier and healthier life.
4. Take breaks
Happier moms take more breaks from their children. This idea may seem selfish to some, but taking breaks from the kids when needed is much more sensible than it is selfish. Parenting while burnt out and stressed out makes everyone unhappy, including your kids.
So when the pressure mounts call up your mom or other trusted family member and ask her to babysit so you can have dinner with your partner, a friend or simply by yourself. Or next weekend, schedule a trip for the kids to go to the local museum so you can have some at home alone. Having a break a few hours a week will re-charge your batteries, put a smile back on your face and help you to feel more like yourself.
5. Pursue A Passion (or find one)
If you do nothing else on this list, pursue a passion today or develop one if you really want to live a happier life. Sign up for a cooking class, or knitting class or better yet pursue a life-long career goal. Learning a new skill or challenging yourself in a positive way is the best way to change your life. It will increase your knowledge, boost your self-esteem and give your life more meaning and more joy that will last you more than a day, a week or a year. It will last you a lifetime.