Each day I try to be mindful of how we start our day. I’ve heard that if you start your day in a bad mood, it will set the tone for the rest of the day. I try my best in the mornings to help my kids set a positive tone for their day. It is easier said than done. If your kids are anything like mine, I can tell you right now, they have big emotions.
Most of our mornings have been very tearful. The days started off with a “Good morning, mommy!” along with cuddles and smiles. Then I say, “Okay, let’s get dressed and ready for the day.” Next thing you know, all hell breaks loose. There have been many tears–not the soft kind, the hard kind. Sometimes it’s mixed with screaming and lots and lots of whining. Coffee is not enough, and the time I wanted for myself by getting up before the kids is nonexistent.
When I think back to where we were and where we are now–gosh, that was a hard time. And it has gotten better! Let me share was has helped us.
We now have a routine. Having a routine and sticking to it really has brought down the stress.
What Has Helped
Putting out clothes the night before is something that I have tried to do for myself over the years. I’ll be honest, it is not my strong suit, but it can be a huge help in reducing the rush in the morning.
Getting dressed before breakfast has been a big help. As a matter of fact, it’s a must. Granted, on weekends they are able to roam around a bit longer in pajamas. However, having them get dressed before breakfast makes us all feel a bit more productive in getting our morning started.
Make the bed. This one is more for me rather than them. Making the bed gives me that feeling of accomplishment. I have changed my language and say, “If you get it done now, you will have plenty of time to play or watch a show before school.”
The Extras
Be mindful about engaging with yourself and your kids. If you don’t have to look at your social media, don’t. I find that mornings are less productive if I wake up and immediately look at my phone. Ask your kids questions, such as “What are you going to do today?” Or let them in on what you may have planned during the day.
Practice a positive self-affirmation. Starting your day with a positive affirmation can help bring in those positive vibes when mornings are seemingly unpleasant. Some affirmations I like to say are:
“I can choose to have an awesome day.”
“I am giving my family what they need.”
And the one I really love is, “When I am calm, it helps my family be calm.”
I hope these tips are helpful to you! No matter how your morning starts, remember to give yourself grace.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
