Single parenting takes its toll on us. Hey, we cannot help it, or can we? Take a good look in the mirror. Do not get too close, however. We have to cut ourselves some slack, you know. You probably look tired and worn out and rightly so. If you think that there is nothing that you can do about it, you are wrong. Allowing yourself to become disheveled and dumpy will only drag you down even more.
First of all, you have to find a quiet time to do this. Maybe when the kids go to sleep? Okay, if that is totally impossible, do it while the kids are awake if you must, just do it. If you have little ones bring them into the bathroom with you. Get the older kids occupied doing something. Of course, make sure that they are responsible enough to be out or sight for a little bit and that they are safe. You will probably have to work fast if the kids are awake, but it can be done.
Shower, or bathe, whatever time permits. Drag your makeup to a central location, but still being able to easily accomplish. If you never wore makeup and do not feel comfortable, couldn’t you try it just this once? I think that once you see it on, you will like it. Apply makeup naturally. It looks best that way, but can still be noticeable. Do your hair….try something totally different. Give yourself a manicure AND a pedicure. This is great…a do-it-yourselfer and no money spent. Lastly, find something nice in your closet to wear. Something that you do not normally wear would be good. Make sure it does not look like a burlap sack either.
Now, step back and take a look at yourself. Do you feel better? I bet that you do.
Not taking care of yourself can only further depress you and drag your spirit down. Single parenting is a lot of work. It is twice as much as that of a two-parent family. You probably will not be able to do this on a daily basis, but if you have the energy, do it. If you do not have the time or energy at least do it once a week. Be good to yourself. I will bet your kids will love it too!
Angel Lynn writes in weight loss, single parenting, and health