As a single mom, you may have a continual dialog going on in your mind. “Am I doing this right?” “Do I need to try harder to get a man in my life?” “Am I enough?” Raising kids on your own can be an overwhelming experience filled with self-doubt and anxiety. You want the best for your children, and it can sometimes feel like you are facing an uphill battle doing it all on your own.
The truth is, while your struggles are real, you can survive and thrive through these challenging times. It’s possible to experience joy in the journey, knowing you are doing the best you can, and that is enough.
It Starts with Your Mind
Self-defeating thoughts are all too common with single moms, but it’s important to take those thoughts captive. Don’t allow negativity to infiltrate your mind and leave you feeling insecure. Instead, focus on filling your mind with empowering, positive thoughts to keep you on the right track.
Chances are, this isn’t the journey you expected when you started a family, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a loving, healthy home. Here are some tips for thriving through the challenges and finding joy for you and your kids:
#1: Know That Your Singleness Does Not Define Who You Are
When a relationship ends, it can change your self-perception. It’s crucial to know who you are as a woman and your value as a human being. You aren’t just your to-do list. Also, you aren’t the one who couldn’t keep your relationship together. You are a living, breathing being who has great potential, loves her children, and is doing her best. Remember these truths when feelings of inadequacies creep into your mind.
You may find it’s helpful to take a few moments each day to reflect on who you are as a person outside of all relationships, and even outside of being a mother. Journal if it feels comfortable. Read uplifting books or spiritual devotions to focus your mind on the truth of who you are.
#2: Embrace Your Imperfections
No one is perfect. Not a married mom and not a single mom. Instead of striving for perfection, embrace the challenges, the struggles, and the imperfections. Letting your kids know that you aren’t perfect can be a powerful lesson for them, too. When you can accept yourself and forgive yourself, you will find you can enjoy the journey so much more.
#3: Take Time for Self-Care
You may think there’s no time for nurturing yourself when you are responsible for other people and have a never-ending to-do list. However, even a few moments each day to rejuvenate yourself can make a big difference in your quality of life. Your kids will notice a difference, too.
Sit in a quiet place and listen to your favorite music. Take a long bath. Journal. Exercise. Read a good book. Seek out counseling from a qualified therapist. Anything that feels good to you can serve as a way to re-energize and refocus, especially during challenging times.
Reach Out for Extra Support at Positive Living Psychotherapy
You may find you need some strategies to help you build the life you want as a single mom. By turning to an experienced therapist, you can develop coping skills and receive the professional support you need to turn the corner. Connect with the team at Positive Living Psychotherapy online now if you would like a free consultation with one of our compassionate therapists.