Let’s face it: parenting is like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle… on a tightrope… blindfolded… and someone’s always yelling, “I’m hungry!”
You’re busy. You’re tired. And your coffee’s been microwaved three times and still hasn’t been consumed. If the idea of “self-care” makes you laugh, cry, or roll your eyes (or all three at once), this post is for you.
I’m no stranger to the feeling of being overwhelmed. Most of time, everything seems to be happening at once, breaks are unheard of, and you just want to hide in your closet with some Buffalo wings, and cry – or is that just me?
We’ve all been there. But we don’t have to let the hard days of parenting win, especially at the cost of our mental health. Here are realistic tips for parents, like me, who are just trying to survive without completely losing their minds. Here are some tips that work for me…
Take Micro-Breaks (Yes, Hiding in the Pantry Counts)
You don’t need a meditation app or yoga mat. Just close your eyes, take a breath, and pretend you’re on a beach instead of surrounded by laundry and Legos or whatever other unwanted items your child(ren) tend to leave hanging around.
Lower the Bar (Like, Way Down)
Listen—if everyone in your house is alive, semi-fed, and wearing some form of clothing, you’re crushing it.
Homemade meals? Great. Cereal for dinner? Also great. Who says Cheerios can’t be gourmet?
In parenthood, you have to do what works best for you and your household. We won’t always feel up to cooking elaborate meals or doing anything else that takes up a lot of time and planning after working a long day. That’s fine!
Say “No” Like a Toddler Would
You know how your kid yells “NOOOO!” at things like broccoli and bedtime? Channel that energy.
It’s okay to say no to the PTA bake sale, the third birthday party this weekend, or that group chat that never ends. Protect your peace like it’s the last cookie in the pantry. And remember, NO IS A FULL SENTENCE.
Move Your Body (or Just Pretend)
Actual workout? Unlikely. But chasing a toddler who’s naked and running with a permanent marker? Cardio.
I find that walking helps put myself in an overall better mood, even if that means just walking around my couch in the living room. Moving your body helps release stress and boosts those feel-good hormones. And for me, it even assists with leveling out my anxiety. So no matter what you do, don’t forget to MOVE!
Adult Conversation is a Lifeline
Call a friend. Text your favorite meme. DM someone just to say, “Being a parent is wild, right?”
Talking to other grown-ups reminds us that you’re still a human—not just a snack-fetching robot with eyebags. We all need people to relate to and adult friendships are important. Even a short conversation with others can make us feel whole again, and that’s always very much needed.
Don’t have too many friends? No problem. Find a mom or dad meet up in your neighborhood, or even a parenting group on social media would suffice. Millennialmomstar on Instagram promotes self-care tips, motherhood hacks and sisterhood. She even coordinates mom link-ups! Uhh, yes please.
Laugh
One thing about it, I laugh! I couldn’t imagine going through life everyday, always serious. Sometimes, we have to find the humor in everyday situations – even when we feel like clawing our eyeballs out.
I find it very satisfying to just enjoy small parts of my day. Laughing at, and having fun with my children is a huge part of my happiness in being a mother.
Your kid dump out all the trash bags or likes to sit on top of the refrigerator? Cool. Laugh about it. Or cry then laugh. Welcome to parenthood.
Social Media Is a Lie (Mostly)
If your mental health takes a nosedive every time you scroll past another “perfect” mom who does sunrise yoga with her four angelic kids and still bakes gluten-free muffins, unfollow. Immediately. Besides, we already know people likely only show the things that make them look good, never the struggle. I promise, they have their problems too.
It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap on social media. Take breaks when you need to, mute accounts that stress you out, and remember: Most of what you see is a highlight reel. If you’re doing your absolute best, your children already have the most amazing parent.
Gratitude
Try recognizing and appreciating the good things in your life, whether big or small, and watch the deeper sense of connection, peace, and happiness you feel. Some mornings, I randomly wake up with a huge sense of gratitude for no apparent reason, until I realize that everything isn’t all that bad. I find that being thankful, especially considering all that I’m blessed with, gives me a sense of peace.
Ask for Help
You don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your partner to take the kids for a bit. Call your mom, family or friend. Hire a sitter. Use screen time. — And if things start to become too unbearable, speak to a therapist or a trusted friend. Talking things out or getting professional support can lift a huge weight off your shoulders.
Getting help is strong—not shameful. So let go of the guilt and remember: burnt out parents can’t raise chill kids & you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Let Some Things Slide
I’ve learned to choose my battles wisely. Not every little thing your child does needs to be addressed – as long as they’re not hurting themselves or anyone else, some things are safe to let slide – for your own sanity.
No use in crying over spilled milk, right?…
Bonus Tip:
Try new hobbies and find things that make YOU happy! You’re more than a parent, you’re YOU! And you’re the most important person you could invest in!
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just “Mom” or “Dad”—You’re Human
Sure, you’re the family CEO, head chef, emotional support human, and snack distribution manager. But you’re also allowed to rest. Laugh. Hide. Breathe. And absolutely lose it sometimes. It’s ok.
Just remember: You’re doing great, even if you don’t feel like it.
As a parent, what steps do you take to ensure your mental stays in tact?
TTYL
LEXI 💋
