The 5 Most Simple and Essential Tips
1- Do not expect perfection - You are in a beautiful and also tiring and trying time in your life so give yourself grace and lay off the pressure. You can only do so much! Do what you absolutely can do (and what is most important) and the rest leave for tomorrow.
2. Organize - To find out what is most important, make some general lists (for food, children, home, dreams, etc) and think about what you have to do in each category, then write it down. Then make a new list for that day of what you think you can reasonably accomplish, what won't push you over your "sane parent" line, and what you think absolutely has to be done. Then at the end of the day, if there are a few things left (or all things left - I've been there), celebrate! You made it, and there is tomorrow!
You can keep referring back to your general "to do lists" (in home, children, dreams, etc) to cross things off, add things, and keep organized. Then keep making your daily lists and staying positive in the process! Remember -- Its okay and sometimes better to leave things go "un-done!" Yes! I said it! Un-done! This can be liberating and it can give yourself the freedom you might need (discussed in point number 3).
3- Get help and support from family and friends- You can not do this on your own! You will need some help from family and friends! Schedule a play date one day a week for your child to go to while you get something done. Ask your family to help out one to a few days a week. Organize timing with your spouse/partner/husband/wife. See when you can "switch off" on duty! You can also look for some day care options!
There is no "right way!" There are endless ways to raise children and you have to be true to who you are and your circumstance - That is what will make you the BEST mom or dad! Try not to compare yourself to others and what they say is the best way. The best way is being YOU because your child will appreciate that the most later on!
4 - Spend some time on yourself- Do not forget to take a day off. Go spend some time in the park with your little one/ones. Go exercise or meditate. Go spend some time with friends! Go have a glass a wine or watch some Netflix! Life is not about charging ahead. Do what makes you feel good! Because these times of recharging will also make you a more patient and calm parent!
5 - If you loose it a day, or find yourself "in the weeds," try not to freak out! - We all have been there! Do not stress if you see yourself plunging downhill one day. This is normal and part of the process. Building anything takes time and patience, especially if you have little's!
Tips by Caroline Swensen
Mommy and Owner of Little Bear Big - Quality Children's Products