The Mama Mindset: Balanced & Blessed

Hey there, and welcome to the very first post of The Mama Mindset: Balanced & Blessed! I’m Stevie Christine, a fellow mom navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood just like you.

 I created this podcast to help moms find grace in the mess, focus on self-care, and cultivate a balanced mindset. Whether you’re here for inspiration, practical tips, or just a little reassurance that you’re not alone, you’re in the right place.

Today, we’re diving into how to embrace the chaos of motherhood without losing yourself in the process.

Let’s be real: motherhood can feel like a whirlwind. One minute, you’re rocking the mom game, and the next, you’re wondering how you’re going to make it to bedtime. At the end of your worst day you can look over at your little one, ask how their day was, and get an answer that will truly shock you. Even amidst the chaos it could be their best day ever. Something so small could make them the happiest and you are only focused on the rough and that truly sums up the chaos and how we view motherhood. 

Most of the time when we are lost within ourselves we need to dig deep enough to find the balance in things. 

Balance is not about a perfect 50/50 split between work, kids, and self-care. It’s about knowing what’s most important in the moment and being okay with letting other things wait. Finding out what works today might not work tomorrow and that’s okay. That’s life. Not every day will be the same. Your patience will change, same as your children and your to do list. It’s okay to have days dedicated to specific tasks. Today focus on work, tomorrow focus on the house and chores, the next day plan something fun for everyone no matter how minimal. Create a system that works and when it stops working rewrite the plan. 

Finding balance as a mother between work, children, and self-care is a continuous journey that requires intention and flexibility. Here are some practical strategies to help you manage it:

1. Prioritize and Plan

• Identify Priorities: Determine what matters most in your life right now (e.g., spending quality time with your children, excelling at work, or prioritizing self-care).

• Create a Schedule: Use calendars, planners, or apps to plan your day and allocate time for work, family, and yourself. Include both non-negotiables (e.g., work meetings, kids’ school events) and flexible activities.

2. Set Boundaries

• Work Boundaries: If possible, establish clear work hours and avoid bringing work home or checking emails during family time.

• Family Time: Communicate with your family about your needs and set boundaries around when you need personal time.

3. Delegate and Ask for Help

• At Home: Share household responsibilities with your partner or older children. Consider outsourcing tasks like cleaning or meal prep when feasible.

• At Work: Delegate tasks to coworkers or ask for support when overwhelmed.

4. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

• With Children: Even small moments of undivided attention can mean a lot. Play, talk, or read with your kids without distractions.

• At Work: Be present and productive during work hours to minimize the need for overtime.

5. Schedule Self-Care

• Daily Practices: Incorporate small self-care habits, like a 10-minute meditation, reading, or journaling.

• Bigger Breaks: Set aside time for activities you enjoy, such as exercise, hobbies, or socializing with friends.

6. Learn to Say No

• Resist overcommitting to social obligations or taking on too many tasks. Saying no can create space for what truly matters.

7. Embrace Flexibility

• Life is unpredictable. Allow yourself grace when things don’t go as planned and adjust your priorities as needed.

8. Stay Connected

• Build a support system of friends, family, or fellow moms to share experiences, advice, and encouragement.

9. Practice Gratitude

• Reflect on the positives in your life to stay grounded and remind yourself why you’re working hard in all areas.

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed

• If feelings of overwhelm or guilt persist, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor for additional support.

Balance looks different for every mom, so find what works best for you and adjust as your circumstances change.

Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being-when you take care of yourself, you can show up more fully for your work and your children.

Once you have found the balance or even in the process of finding the balance it’s easy to lose sight of all the little wins and that feeling of how blessed you are to be someone’s mother.  Appreciating the feeling of being blessed and celebrating the little wins as a mom can bring more joy and fulfillment to your daily life. 

Here are a few ways to cultivate that sense of gratitude and mindfulness:

1. Start a Gratitude Practice

•   Daily Gratitude Journal: Write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for each day, such as a smile from your child or a quiet moment to yourself.
•   Reflect on Blessings: Take a moment each evening to reflect on the positive parts of your day, no matter how small.

2. Celebrate Small Wins

•   Acknowledge Progress: Whether it’s getting through a busy day or successfully navigating a tantrum, recognize the effort and growth.
• Celebrate Together: Share little achievements with your kids or partner-like finishing homework, cooking a new dish, or even just cleaning up toys.
•   Reward Yourself: Treat yourself with something small, like a favorite snack or a relaxing activity, as a way to honor your efforts.

3. Be Present in the Moment

•   Mindful Awareness: Focus on the small, beautiful moments-like your child’s laughter, a hug, or the way the sunlight streams into the room.
•   Take a Pause: In the chaos of parenting, pause and take a deep breath to appreciate what’s happening around you.

4. Focus on What You’re Doing

Right

•   Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself of the things you’re doing well, rather than focusing on perceived shortcomings.
•   Track Wins: Keep a list of your accomplishments as a mom-big and small-like managing a tantrum with patience or preparing a healthy meal.

5. Surround Yourself with Support

•   Share Your Wins: Talking with friends or family about your little victories can help you feel validated and uplifted.
•   Encourage Others: Supporting other moms in their wins often helps you appreciate your own.

6. Create Keepsakes

•   Capture the Moments: Take pictures or write short notes about special moments, like your child saying something funny or taking their first steps.
•   Memory Jar: Create a jar where you drop in little notes about happy or proud moments to reflect on later.

7. Practice Gratitude as a Family

•   Share Grateful Moments: At meals or bedtime, ask each family member to share one thing they’re grateful for that day.
•   Celebrate Together: Recognize family wins, like teamwork during chores or a fun day out.

8. Shift Perspective

•   Reframe Challenges: Instead of focusing on struggles, view them as opportunities for growth-for you and your child.
•   Look at the Big Picture: Remember the privilege and joy of watching your child grow and the lessons you learn along the way.

9. Lean Into Joyful Rituals

•   Create Traditions: Engage in small family rituals, like bedtime stories or weekend pancake mornings, to savor everyday blessings.
•   Embrace Playfulness: Let yourself laugh, play, and be silly with your kids—it can be a reminder of the joy of motherhood.

10. Practice Self-Compassion

•   Be Kind to Yourself: Remind yourself that no one is perfect and that you’re doing your best.
•   Celebrate Effort: Even on tough days, recognize that showing up for your kids is a win in itself.

By slowing down, being mindful, and intentionally celebrating the small joys and accomplishments of motherhood, you can deepen your sense of gratitude and feel more connected to the blessings in your life.

As we wrap up, remember that being a mom is both a challenge and a gift.

Balancing work, family, and self-care might feel overwhelming at times, but by celebrating small wins, practicing gratitude, and giving yourself grace, you can find joy in the everyday moments. Every step you take is a testament to your love and resilience.

You’re doing an amazing job, and it’s the little things that truly make a big difference.

Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to take a moment today to celebrate your journey as a mother.

Until next time, take care and stay inspired!