We all have our own definition for what a Supermom is and what tasks we need to accomplish to achieve that status. To a large degree, we mothers hold ourselves to this standard merely as an expression of the enormous love and gratitude we feel for our children. The type of mother who even holds a parenting magazine in her hands is obviously committed in some way to creating loving memories with her child. However, with all the economic changes that have taken place over the past couple years, mothers feel even more strongly that they are being pulled in ten different directions.
The reality of the matter is that most mothers set high expectations for themselves that are not necessary to create long-lasting memories for their children. I discovered this as I begun a tradition in our home called "no TV time". The goal of no TV time was to spend some quiet moments of gratitude for the day with my children. We would take turns sharing something for which we were grateful, and talk about our long and short term goals.
By doing little things like this, mothers can see that their children really do not have unattainable goals that require them to win the lottery or work 72 hours a week. So often the goals are as simple as, "I want to walk around the mall and read books at the bookstore"; "I want to have a picnic at the park" or "I want to make you breakfast in bed".
To be a Supermom you first need to restore balance in your life while creating moments that really matter:
Feed yourself first. Although this sounds selfish at first, the rested mother who has a bit of balance scheduled into her life has the most to offer. While keeping in mind that balanced does not always mean equal, the mother who allows herself a few moments to recharge her battery will achieve Supermom status. She will be able to work in and out of the home without her children ever feeling the least bit slighted.
Communicate with your kids. Ask them their opinions about their goals for a birthday party or a day spent together. Oftentimes we set outlandish goals for ourselves when our children's desires are far more attainable than we might have thought.
Plan and prioritize. Whether you prefer to be spontaneous or you are a chronic planner, there is much to be said for just a little bit of scheduling for the fun things in life. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our children is in being respectful with our time and allowing our family to spend some quality time together. Organize a family calendar to plan time together. Just a few minutes spent planning and doing so together can validate one another. Planning keeps the whole family aware and better able to support each other.
Simple pleasures. What are some simple ways to make your kids feel like they are kings or queens? Turn off the technology and show your children that you value what they have to say. As any of us who have children know, our children are wise beyond their years. Their insight and simplicity is often such a blessing to us. Be present to the present moments.
Supermom status is attainable. Embrace yourself in attention to your intentions. Bask in the grace of the present moment and the beauty of simplicity.
Shelly Thomson-Blevins - Shelly Thomson-Blevins is just a girl trying to balance love, life, and everything in between.
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