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25 Secrets of Happy Moms
Before you have a baby, it's impossible to imagine the highs you'll feel -- what can match seeing that big, toothless grin or watching him take those first wobbly steps? But it's just as hard to conceive of how stressful raising kids can be -- the worry, the fatigue, and the occasional pang over your lost freedom. The truth is, staying in good spirits with a little one at home can take some effort. But it's well worth it: Your happiness is not only vital for your own body and soul, but for your baby's too. In fact, one of the best ways to raise happy children is to model happiness ourselves, says Christine Carter, Ph.D., sociologist and author of Raising Happiness. So how do you find your bliss amid diapers and dirty dishes? First, try to recognize the humor in the ridiculousness. Research shows that laughter can relieve stress by "resetting" your nervous systems. And employ a few (or all!) of these proven pick-me-ups to stay on the sunny side of mommyhood.
What is your secret for staying sane and happy? Tell Us.
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The more I quit focusing on how good "other moms" look from the outside at this parenting thing, the better I start feeling about my abilities as a working mom. I just read a book about it--"The 10 Habits of Happy Moms" by Meg Meeker, MD. I'd recommend it to other moms out there. Basically it gives good tips on how to get rid of the guilt and start realizing how awesome we really already are.
9/2/2011 10:29:19 AM Report AbuseBeing home all day is taxing at times but I find that if I take some time to see the world through my daughters eyes..marvel at everything she finds interesting, i am reminded of hour pure her love is. I also on occasion have an "adult" conversation with her. Being only 10 months, she makes a good sounding board!
4/20/2011 03:07:45 PM Report AbusePutting a spin on frustrating behavior works for any age, and any relationship. Just remember, something that might be a drag in kids, like stubbornness, can be an asset in an adult (perseverance) if honed and directed a positive way. So as they get older, instead of "I hate when you argue with me all the time!" shock them by calmly or positively saying "I love how you stay true to yourself and what you want! I wish we could, but..." (and insert a calm, logical reason why you won't give in.)
4/20/2011 10:49:02 AM Report Abuse"Sell" your kids. Even to yourself. Instead of thinking/saying things like "Oh, he never sleeps!" or "She constantly needs my attention!" spin it. "I love his energy!" "I love how much she loves me. I love feeling needed!" By changing how you say and think about an issue, even if just artificially (by forcing yourself to say something positive instead, even if you don't FEEL it,) you change how you feel about and deal with the issue.
4/20/2011 10:46:47 AM Report Abuse