Steps I’m Taking to Be a Calmer Mom

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Being a calm parent is far from the easiest thing in the world (especially if you’re a “yeller mom” like me). Sharing the steps I’m taking to bring more calm to my everyday motherhood style.

This post is sponsored by Health Warrior. Thanks for supporting Project Motherhood!

Steps I’m Taking to Be a Calmer Mom

I’ve opened up many times in the past about being a self-proclaimed “yeller mom” and when I did, I received quite an outpour of moms questly admitting the same thing to me, almost like it was a secret club. My mom, who you all know I’m currently crashing with the kiddos, says that from her point of view I’m a calm mom. I don’t feel that way though. In fact, I feel like all I do is remind and yell and then I completely lose it (quicker than I’m proud to admit). And you know? It’s gotten to this point where it kinda haunts me at night, and I feel bad.

I know I’m not perfect and will never be a completely chill mom, but there are a few different strides I’ve been taking in my everyday life to help myself be a little bit calmer. I figured if I can even tone it down a few decibels that will be a win. So for all you mamas ready to switch from the yeller mom club to the calm mom club, here’s my tips today in partnership with my BFFs at Health Warrior.

My daily “swaps” to add more calm into my life

First and foremost, self-care and making sure your mental health is in check are two HUGE components of being a calmer mom. I discussed self-care strategies a couple of weeks ago so that you can figure out a plan that works for you – because finding time for self-care is a challenge within itself. And it can be overwhelming and is always the first thing thrown out the window whenever your to-do list gets too long. I get it. And I’m going to give you a little bit of tough love here: there will never be any calm in your life (or in your head) if these two things aren’t being managed.

And I will also wholeheartedly tell you that I learned this the tough way. We have a lot going on with our move and being in a long distance relationship/parenting cycle right now and there are some struggles with Branden in school that I haven’t yet publicly discussed – every day is chaos. I thought I had my emotions in check, but it wasn’t until my mom was like “you have to go get a physical and discuss your mental health with the doctor.” I needed that push and am working on tuning down the chaos and turning up the joy.

1. I’ve swapped work for more downtime/fitness time.

First of all, I’m a workaholic. I’ve realized lately though, that I’m not getting a lot accomplished unless it’s the first half hour after Branden leaves for school, nap time or after 8 pm. Second, I’m a HUGE advocate of working out at home and getting your kids involved. Knowing these two things made me come to the realization that I need to let go of the working little bits all day thing and put my attention elsewhere – instead of scrolling through Facebook.

Taking time to have extra cuddle time with Blake has strengthened our bond and whenever I’m paying more attention to her she’s calmer, thus making me calmer. I also started adding as much distance to my runs as possible because I have time to devote to it. In turn, she enjoys it because I’m doing something with her during the week and it’s making me a better mom both physically and mentally.

2. I’ve swapped unhealthy treats for healthy ones.

I LOVE my sweets. But I also know that I can’t have loads and loads of sugar in my diet. Having these Pumpkin Seed Protein Bars from Health Warrior handy, gives me everything I need to fuel me through motherhood. They are not only organic, filled to the brim with vitamins that most of us moms aren’t getting, but they taste like almond joys, and that’s something I know we can all get behind.

Why are healthy swaps so important for being a calmer mom? Because if I’m eating crap and then feel like crap, I’ll pretty much act like crap. All of those negatives building on top of one another makes for one stressed out mama and we don’t need that!

3. I’ve swapped a bad attitude for a positive one.

Generally speaking, I’m a pretty positive person. But life and stress lately has weighed heavy on me and all of these little things (calls from the school, Blake skipping a nap, preparing for my driver’s test) mess with my zen and have kinda given me a bad attitude lately. I’m sure you can replace any of those things I listed with the stressors in your life and draw that connection, too. It’s not easy, but taking a second to look for the good in every situation will instantly help you to have a calmer outlook – and you will notice the difference in the way those around you react to the positive energy you’re putting out.

Looking for more parenting tips? I’ve got you covered, mama!

And I can’t end this post without saying that I totally understand that every day is different. It will always be that way. Some days are better than others and none of us are perfect and calm at all times. You are entitled to having bad days. Own it and be a better version of yourself tomorrow. Mama, you’ve got this!

XOXO,

Allison