It can sometimes feel like we’re constantly juggling a million things at once and very rarely (if ever) do we feel like we’ve done it successfully. Between work obligations, family responsibilities, and working towards our personal goals, it's easy to become overwhelmed and completely stressed out especially if you’re in the market for a new job. With April being National Stress Awareness Month, I thought it would be the perfect time to take a step back and evaluate how we're managing our stress levels as moms. 

Before I dive into a few tips, I want to share a very personal story with you. It was shortly after the start of my workday, so I was sitting at my desk in the office when I realized I was having trouble reading an email. I decided to go home since I lived nearby to pop out my contact lenses and put on my glasses. I made it back to my desk and realized I was still struggling to see full words on the screen. I called my eye doctor to explain the situation and promptly went in for an exam. 

Him: “Kristina, are you stressed?”

Me: “Where would you like me to begin?”

That was February 2011.

What my eye doctor did not know was that my house was burglarized that past November and my youngest daughter and I actually walked in as they were breaking into my home. The fear and panic and protective instinct all hit at once and we were able to make it to safety while we had a view of the thieves walking out my front door with our belongings.

My eye doctor also did not know I had my last encounter with my abusive ex a month after that robbery. It was awful and that memory is etched into my brain and the brains of our children forever.

STRESS was putting it mildly.

My diagnosis was central serous retinopathy and my doctor was clear that I needed to work on stress management immediately. 

While our bodies process stress differently, I learned a tough lesson. Finding ways to deal with life’s stressors wasn’t optional and needed to be my priority so I could be present for my daughters.

With that said, here are just a few tips to help you reduce stress and find harmony in your life.

Prioritize self-care: Self-care is essential for managing stress. Taking time for yourself is not selfish, it's necessary. Whether it's exercise, meditation, or simply reading a book, make sure you're doing something that helps you relax and recharge. It's essential to have some alone time and recharge your batteries.

Set boundaries: As a working mom, it can be challenging to separate work and family time, but it's important to establish boundaries and stick to them. Be clear with your employer about your availability outside of work hours, and try to disconnect from work-related tasks during family time. When you're at work, try to focus solely on your work tasks and avoid getting distracted by personal matters. I know that's often easier said than done.

Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether it's from a spouse, family member, or friend, having a support system can make a big difference in managing stress. If you feel like you're drowning in responsibilities, reach out for help, whether it be in the form of childcare, help with housework, or simply someone to talk to. You don't have to do it all alone.

Define success on your terms: Success is not a one-size-fits-all definition. It's essential to define success on your terms instead of comparing yourself to others or societal expectations. Take some time to reflect on what success means to you and what you want to achieve in your career and personal life. Create a plan that aligns with your values and goals, and don't be afraid to adjust it as needed.

As Lauren from Master Mom Stress shared with us on the VSFM podcast, "success is not about achieving balance, it's about finding harmony. It's about creating a life that works for you, your family, and your career." Remember, finding harmony is a journey, not a destination. Take small steps every day to reduce stress and find balance, and celebrate the small wins along the way.

At Virtual Six-Figure Mom, we understand the unique challenges our fellow working moms face and we're dedicated to providing resources and support to help you achieve your career goals without sacrificing your family or your mental health. If you're struggling with stress, we offer personalized coaching and support to help you reduce stress and achieve career success on your terms. Contact us to schedule a discovery call and learn more.

We all know stress is a part of life, but it doesn't have to control your life and my hope is that you avoid the health issues it can cause. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, asking for help, and defining success on your terms, you can reduce stress and find harmony in your life. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate the challenges of being a working mom.

Click HERE to schedule your discovery call today!