I used to be bored...a lot. I kind of miss those days. Even after having two children, I found myself bored. I volunteered, I crafted, I cooked, cleaned, went shopping and I would still have time to feel bored. After the third child was born, I carefully orchestrated our lives so that everyone had a thing or two do stay busy. At some point along the way, I became this person that liked and thrived at having things to do. Somewhere in the back of my head, I hear that saying "Idle hands are the devil's tools".. and I just continue to fill my plate. However...I do have limits, and I began to feel tired..really, really tired.
We have three children who are getting older and are at the stage where they want to focus on things that they really enjoy instead of trying everything out. (I don't miss they trying it all out phase). I don't know about the rest of you...but Momma's tired y'all. I'm not even the one going to a practice every night and games on Saturday. I've quickly learned that taking my children out of public school and homeschooling is one of the most demanding jobs I've ever had in my life.
Today, I can literally open up my planner and find multiple days of each week booked and have a hard time penciling in time with a friend. My life absolutely revolves around my children and my husband. I try my best to put our family first because he isn't always home. Many a birthday or anniversary was missed due to his job. When he is home, we want to spend time together. Even if it involves wearing yoga pants and watching tv all weekend. I write all of our plans in erasable pen or pencil because you just have to take some things of your plate if the timing isn't right.
Some tips I've picked up on the way continue to help me when I easily over-commit myself. I want to share them with you in case you are in a similar situation.
- Reduce activities to a few nights a week. Having a couple of nights with NOTHING planned is amazing.
- Don't forget about YOU. Set some time aside to help you clear your head, relax, read a book, or whatever helps you unwind. If your kids are taking a dance class, consider jumping in an adult class during their time to give yourself something magical. (I did this...it's a great use of time and I get exercise!)
- Volunteering is a wonderful and sometimes demanding job. Remember it is never your full responsibility to fill a position. Yes, you can actually over extend yourself easily by volunteering. I spent 4 years as a Girl Scout Leader on top of other volunteer positions. It's exhausting and sometimes the rewards go unappreciated. If you feel called to volunteer, don't be too concerned to limit yourself to one or two positions.
- Don't be afraid to put your foot down. When your kiddo's refuse to catch up on their work, it's okay and totally acceptable to cancel one of their evening activities. You get a surprise break, and they might learn something.
- Try to schedule things together. Group your dental appointments into one time slot, schedule music lessons back to back, ask a friend if your child can carpool if possible etc. I am probably terrible at time management, but this one trick is super helpful when I'm driving. I don't like spending my entire week in the car. ;)
Some of these probably feel like no-brainers, but in the short circuitry of a mom brain, it's easy to over look the simple things. Always remember that your children value YOU and the TIME you spend with them more than the things they are continuously doing. If you aren't fully or at least 3/4 rested, what can you really offer them or your spouse?
We live in a busy world now. Everyone has something going on and a full calendar unless they prefer life in a wide open space. It is important that we remember -Life is not a competition. You aren't going to get front row seats in heaven by exposing you or your family to more, or completing your bucket list. Live life - Yes - but prioritize what is important to you!
If this post has helped you or enlightened your perspective, please leave a comment below! I'd love to hear about it!
No comments:
Post a Comment