Joining the club

Truth?

I’ve had a really crazy several weeks. To top off the new schedules, check-ups, meetings, classes and playdates, I’ve been solo parenting for almost two weeks now. Initially, I was sure I had this. Then the first week happened and I could feel my stress levels settling at an undesirably high baseline. The second week was feeling overwhelming before it even began. And then, magic. It always feels like a pinch-me moment when I swoop in and save my own day.

You better believe I used my own advice and kicked those 5 C’s into high gear. When I couldn’t kick the stress from the first week, I knew something had to change. So, first I changed my language.

I stopped saying how overwhelmed I was and how busy and crazy everything was going to be. Thinking is always more exhausting than doing, I reminded myself. I chose to have a more abundant approach. How much fun was I going to have with the kids? This was my chance to fill in for dad, which means I get to do some fun stuff too! (Thanks Curiosity and Creativity!)

I prioritized feeling good and having fun. It’s my ‘how’ strategy these days. Take it from me, it’s possible to be a high-achieving, responsible adult and feel good. (I definitely wrote that sentence as a reminder to myself.)

I found as many opportunities to say YES! as I could. That’s unusual for me. These last two weeks have uncovered a belief I didn’t realize I had: As a mom, I’m responsible for the boring to-dos and dad gets all the fun stuff. I know my husband contributes to our household and chores, but when he’s around I often find myself needing to be the weight that keeps our scales from tipping.

I’m wondering now…tipping into what? What am I actually afraid is going to happen?

I’m not sure that I have unearthed the whole answer there, but I’m pretty confident it’s tied to my story of achieving and deprivation. How can we say yes, have tons of fun, and accomplish our goals? I think it’ll take some experimenting, but I feel excited about what’s possible.

The kids and I have accomplished all our work (school, classes, book writing, meetings, errands, meals, dishes, house-cleaning, laundry, groceries…) and had play dates, a sushi lunch, a mac-and-cheese movie night, cuddly reading time and video games. I’m feelin’ on top of the world right about now. (That’s Control and Confidence stepping up.)

Try this for yourself!

How can you follow what feels good? Show yourself some extra kindness? Stay flexible? Use Clarity, Control, Confidence, Curiosity, and Creativity as your executive team that’ll let you do it all and enjoy the ride.

I’ve drawn my line in the sand. I won’t settle for anything less than feeling good.

Join me?