Going it Alone
Unfortunately, being a single parent also means having one income. Going it alone is tough, not only emotionally and physically, but financially as well. After working full-time all day nobody relishes the thought of coming home to more work. For some this means the typical workload of taking care of the children and the house, which is more than enough. For others it means either working a second job out of the house or at home in addition to the care of the children and the house. They always have the feeling that there is not enough of them to go around and it is true. Single parenthood is draining, to say the least.
Cutting Back
This not only means cutting back on expenses, but cutting back on the workload also. Some single parents get themselves so stressed out in trying to do everything that eventually their health is bound to suffer. This would totally defeat the purpose in trying to gain more in their lives, as they would be out of commission with ill health in the long run. It is perfectly all right to let some things go in order to maintain a healthy physical, as well as emotional well-being. The first step is to prioritize. Make a list and start with the most important things at the top. This would be keeping yourself healthy in order to be there for your kids. The next most important thing on the list would be your children. After that, general care of the house would most likely fall into the next spot on the list. Engage the help of your children if they are old enough to help out. It might not be the way that you would do it, but teaching them everyday tasks will not only help you, but also teach them some valuable lessons in life. As long as your house is reasonably clean that is all that matters. Attempt to cut back on expenses whenever possible. Clip coupons, walk when you can, seek out fun activities that are of little or no cost. There are plenty of things out there to do that you will find by engaging in what your community has to offer. It takes some effort, but they are there.
Much Needed Rest and Downtime
Tomorrow is another day so make sure to give your body the rest that it needs. Spend time with your kids and enjoy them, as they are not young forever. Be good to yourself and treat yourself to some things that are free and feel so good. Some of these things would be a bubble bath, quiet time with a good book, exercise, and a walk with a friend. It will not always be this tough. Brighter days are ahead, but for now enjoy the journey along the way and be content in what you have.
Angel Lynn writes in weight loss and single parenting.