January 23, 2024
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1750 N. Washington St. Suite 120 Naperville, 60563
Summer is finally here! The kids are out of school, the days are longer, and the pressure to make the most of the season is on. For many women, especially moms, summer can feel like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a time for fun and relaxation. On the other, the added responsibilities and expectations can make it overwhelming. As a psychotherapist specializing in working with women and mothers, I want to share some practical tips to help you stay balanced and enjoy the summer months.
The idea of a perfect summer is often a myth! Social media can make it seem like everyone else is having a picture-perfect vacation or the best backyard BBQs. It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Every day doesn’t need to be packed with activities. Sometimes, the best days are the ones spent lounging around the house, enjoying each other’s company.
Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on what’s feasible and enjoyable for your family. Create a summer bucket list with a mix of simple and special activities. Include things like a movie night at home, a trip to the local park, or a weekend getaway. By setting realistic goals, you can reduce stress and enjoy the summer more. Remember, Pinterest is for inspiration, not obligation!
While summer is synonymous with freedom, having a loose routine can provide structure and help manage the chaos. Involve your children in creating a daily or weekly schedule. This could include designated times for activities, chores, and downtime. A flexible routine helps everyone know what to expect and can reduce stress.
Routines don’t need to be rigid. Think of them as a framework to guide your day. For example, mornings could be for outdoor play or excursions, afternoons for quiet time or crafts, and evenings for family activities. Flexibility is key—adjust the routine as needed to accommodate spontaneous opportunities and changing energy levels. And let's be honest, "flexible routine" is just a fancy way of saying "winging it with some sort of plan."
You don’t have to do everything on your own. Delegate tasks to your partner and older children. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family members. Whether it’s arranging a carpool for summer camp or having someone watch the kids for an afternoon, sharing the load can make a big difference.
Openly communicate with your partner about sharing responsibilities. Make a list of tasks and discuss who can handle what. Older children can take on age-appropriate chores, fostering their sense of responsibility and teamwork. Remember, it’s okay to lean on your support network. Accepting help can lighten your load and give you more time to enjoy the summer. Think of it as your own personal Avengers team—assemble your squad and conquer summer together!
Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. Maybe the picnic gets rained out, or the kids spend a bit too much time on their screens. Embrace the imperfections and let go of the need for everything to be perfect. Focus on the joy and the moments of connection rather than the minor hiccups.
Perfectionism can be a major source of stress. Instead, adopt a mindset of flexibility and adaptability. When plans change or things go wrong, look for the silver lining or an alternative activity. Laughter and a positive attitude can turn potential disappointments into cherished memories. And remember, the best stories usually start with, "Remember that time when everything went completely off the rails?"
Summer is a great time to reconnect with hobbies or explore new interests. Whether it’s gardening, painting, or yoga, make time for activities that bring you joy. Pursuing your passions can be incredibly rejuvenating and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Carve out time in your schedule for these activities, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. This personal time can help you recharge and maintain your sense of self amidst the demands of summer. Engage in activities that truly excite and fulfill you, and consider involving your family when appropriate to share your interests and passions. Think of it as summer camp for adults—finally, you get to do what you love, too!
Summer should be a time of enjoyment and relaxation, not stress and burnout. By prioritizing self-care, setting realistic expectations, and embracing imperfection, you can find balance and make the most of the summer months. Remember, the goal isn’t to have a perfect summer, but a meaningful and enjoyable one.
Take care of yourself, enjoy the moments, and have a fantastic summer!
xoxo,
The Centered Life
Congratulations on exploring the first steps to enhancing your life. Let’s chat about you, your family, your job, your stress, your desires, and how we can make joy and bliss in between it all.
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