 Twenty-One Ways to Avoid Single Mother (Parent) Burnout Don't give in to your child's every whim. Single parents guilty of giving that extra toy or candy bar to replace the missing parent tend to spoil their kids in the process. This leads to nore and more time consuming battles over control. You are the parent, and your word is the final one. Save up the many short errands end jobs for a once a month marathon. Devote a half day to accomplishing as much as you can. Ask a friend to come along. Recognize that some of your time will be spent in activities out of your control. Getting upset while waiting in traffic or sitting in a doctor's waiting room, is a waste of time. In fact, "waiting," might be the best time to relax or plan things you would not normally do. Although it's best not to put off what can be done immediately, when overloaded, ask yourself, "Will something horrible happen to me if I don't do this right now?" If you answer "No," chances are you are too tired or stressed out and should save this task for another time. Give up writing notes, addresses and phone numbers on envelopes and napkins that forever get lost or disposed of. Carry rolodex cards in your purse or pocket and jot everything down on those. Put in rolodex file when you get home. The best way to utilize time wisely is to live in the "here and now." Even chores such as cleaning your kid's room can result in quality time if you both allow yourself the fun of doing it. Anything can feel good if you are enjoying yourself. Don't know how to do this? Start "acting as if" you're happy. It's contagious. |
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