As a single parent, it can sometimes feel as though we are slogging along in a grand swamp and that we will never get to shore or even see the clear light of day again! I know that sounds terribly dramatic but who among us has not had those days when we wonder if we are on a treadmill and just working hard at getting nowhere? Whether you are in the midst of all of the legal proceedings of a divorce, dealing with the seemingly unending grief and loss, or trying to get ahead financially in the building of your family (not to mention working at your career or trying to finish up a degree or study program) it can feel as though there is no progress being made. It can be helpful to take stock and ask yourself if things really are getting better, getting worse or truly staying the same?
I find that when I take a step back and truly look at things—I generally notice that they are either getting better or getting worse—seldom actually staying the same. For example, I can honestly say that when I look at my overall financial picture as a single parent, it is gradually getting better—but with an economy that is getting worse and costing more—that means that I spend less on luxuries and have become a very regimented money manager. I get by with less and work more. I work harder to increase my income instead of relying on raises, cost-of-living adjustments or being treated well by a traditional company.
If you can look at the overall picture and weigh what is really going on in areas of your life where you feel stuck—you may find that even though it FEELS as though there is no movement, things really are either getting better or getting worse—not necessarily staying the same for an extended period of time.