You can often feel powerless when you’re a single mom. You have so many responsibilities. Your kids depend on you.
Most likely there’s not enough time, money, or energy to go around.
So what do you do when the pressure is weighing you down?
Fight the Power(lessness)
Are you still trying to please your ex?
Do you feel that you’ll never be able to form a healthy family with just you and your kids?
These and similar worries could be draining you of energy that you desperately need to focus on what really matters in your present life. You can’t please everyone (or hardly anyone, for that matter).
You definitely can’t excessively worry about future outcomes if that drains your current strength. Sure, you can plan. But not obsess about every detail.
So how can you stop worrying about pleasing others or if things will work out in the future?
Create
Creating something is a great antidote.
It’s powerful to destroy, but even more powerful to create.
Can you cook or bake something? Draw or write? Craft or build? Even simply creating a clean space can be soothing.
Getting into the flow of creating gives you confidence to combat the feelings of powerlessness. Feeling confident gives you more energy.
Realize the Power that You Have
Finally, take a few minutes to realize the power that you already have.
How long have you already made it as a single mom? Have you fed and clothed your children?
Do you love them and try your best, day after day, even when it’s tough?
Then own your power.
You may not be a millionaire with a maid, masseuse, cook, and nanny, but you are a mom who is there for her kids. A mom who keeps showing up.
YOU are the most valuable player.
Amy is the writer behind A Lady and Four Gents. She is a self-employed single mom to four boys, including twins. Amy traded her full-time career and outrageous commute for more time with her kids. She hopes to inspire and equip other single moms to build confidence, pursue personal independence, and design the life they long for.