One of the worst things about being a single parent is trying to do everything yourself. If you are fortunate enough to have someone help you, say an ex-husband or an ex-wife or good ole Mom, that is wonderful. For those of you who get by on a wing and a prayer, two hours of sleep, or cancelling a doctor’s appointment for yourself that is long overdue just because there are no other choices, I feel your pain and know it well.
This burden of stress can only go on so long before it takes its toll on you. Something like going to a long overdue doctor’s appointment is important and should be done. Your health is just as important to you as it is to your kids. After all, where would they be without you? Sleep? What is that, you say? Let’s face it, you need to sleep or it becomes not only a health issue, but a safety issue as well. There are certain things that you can let slide that you do not have to do, but the important things need to be done.
For the really important things and yes, even some treat for yourself once in a while because you deserve it, find someone to help you. Since you are probably struggling on a single income, consider trading your services with another single parent or even another parent who is not single. It really does not matter. What really matters is that it is a trade-off. There should not be any money involved, which is great for the both of you. If you are extremely tired, ask the other parent to take your kids for a few hours and then go home and sleep. Make sure, though, that your services are equally exchanged and do not wear it out. If you know a trustworthy parent that would be willing to do this then your problems with this would be solved and your stress that much more relieved.
Angel Lynn writes in weight loss, single parenting, and health.