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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Share your secrets, please, because I am drowning. I delegate and outsource as much as possible, but I am literally DROWNING. My life has gotten so out of control that I can't remember basic things and I never see my children. A few nights ago I had a dream that I was having a heart attack and dying. I can't take the stress anymore of being pulled in a million different directions.[/quote]

You have to bring your children into the process. They can help in a hundred different ways----even by just not making more mess for you to deal with. My children have been taught to put on their own pajamas by themselves. At the start of the summer, I taught my 5yo to shower independently. He taught his sister (3yo), allowing me to get dinner started while they're getting ready for bed. They set the table, using a stepping stool in the kitchen to grab dishes. They are in charge of tidying up the living room. All toys get put away and the sofas cleared off, while I'm prepping lunches for camp. They help me load the dishwasher, and have always known to put dirty clothes near the washing machine.

I'm a single mom. I couldn't function without them pitching in on those everyday chores. They also know that, just as they have their homework, mommy has hers. So, they know that I have to focus on work stuff in the evenings, on occasion.

We pull together as a family.

I do this because of its practical benefits, but also view this as, well, how I want the children to approach family life. My children are not guests in my home, they are functioning family members. We all work to keep things a pace.

Find ways to build in self-care wherever possible. I pluck my eyebrows while the kids settle in for story time!! Ha!! It's not always glamorous, OP----far from it. Do what you can to prioritize your needs. Make "you" a part of everyday life. Don't sacrifice yourself for other tasks. You are your best resource. Lock down bedtime so you get enough sleep. Cook the foods that you crave; you can't survive on leftover nuggets.

Take care, OP. Sending you hugs.

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