Comments on: 5 Ways to Be Happier as a Stay at Home Mom

By: Katelyn Fagan

Katelyn Fagan — Mon, 26 Jan 2015 04:45:53 +0000

In reply to Wendy. Awesome Wendy!! I think that is a great idea! I will have to try it.

By: Wendy

Wendy — Sun, 25 Jan 2015 13:47:44 +0000

In reply to Clare. We have something we call the "3 rule". Estimate how long you think it's going to take you to do something and then multiply that number by three. Give yourself that much time to accomplish the task. Preparing a 20 min. meal? Give yourself an hour b/c you are going to be interrupted by kids, your husband coming home, a phone call, etc. Think it will take you 10 min. to grab what you need and get out the door? Give yourself 30. Someone will have lost a shoe, need an outfit change or need to go potty. Worst case scenario, you have a little extra time in the car w/ kids safely buckled in and you arrive early. EARLY! :) Try it. It works.

By: Elizabeth Lund

Elizabeth Lund — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 19:25:34 +0000

I must admit that I have to take breaks from the computer and focus on positive thoughts. One thing that really helps me is sitting down with my little ones and snuggling and reading. I feel better about the quality time I am spending, and we get some good one-on-one time!

By: Katey Howes

Katey Howes — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 15:33:02 +0000

I had trouble adjusting to being a SAHM, too. Music is my #1 go-to when I’m not feeling happy. It doesn’t matter if it’s singing showtunes or popping in Kidz Bop (much as I abhor it) – a little music and singing and dancing perks me up every time.

By: Robyn

Robyn — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 13:44:04 +0000

Oh I forgot! Stopped by through the HDYDI Link Party! 🙂

By: Robyn

Robyn — Tue, 08 Apr 2014 13:41:23 +0000

I have been at home now for almost 7 years. These are wonderful reminders! In addition I would add setting aside time for yourself….if nothing else than a recharge! 😉

By: Clare

Clare — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 16:46:58 +0000

I’m only a temporary SAHM as I have to go back to work in August, but I’m surprised at how hard it is! You think it will be a breeze but keeping two little ones entertained is so much harder than going out to work. The other day it took me 20 minutes just to get their coats and boots on so we could go play in the garden!
I love your tips – especially the savouring the moments one.

By: Lily

Lily — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 16:20:10 +0000

Thanks you so much for writing this post. I can relate to your first paragraph. I am struggling to find happiness in my new role as a mother of two. To me, it was so much easier with my first, he was a happy baby and I was a happy mother. But with my second, I am so overwhelmed, tired and angry. I am full of guilt and regret which is awful. But at least I know i am not alone and things will get better. It has to and i have to be an active part of that. Thanks for sharing:)

By: Yuliya

Yuliya — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 15:49:15 +0000

What a great list! I really need to use the computer less. It’s been really, really difficult to find a good blogland to real life balance. I agree with the facebook disenfranchisement (is that a word?). I’ve pretty much given up on liking it.

I love what you wrote about savoring the moment! I definitely put the computer away, or stop folding laundry if my son comes over for a cuddle or for help. Our days can get pretty crazy, and I love those special moments! My favourite times of day are when he comes over to me with a book to read. I definitely drop everything and read it right then and there 🙂

By: Jennifer-Mommy Life After Ph.D.

Jennifer-Mommy Life After Ph.D. — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 15:05:09 +0000

OH MY WORD. NUMBER 2 on this list so speaks to me today. I’m having those “evil” thoughts and need to get it together. Thanks so much for sharing this list. Tweeting it!!!

By: Katelyn Fagan

Katelyn Fagan — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 23:56:41 +0000

In reply to Brianne. Thanks for commenting Brianne!! And there is no such thing as coincidence, right? Hope you are doing well!

By: Brianne

Brianne — Sun, 29 Dec 2013 02:59:28 +0000

Very true. Your girls look adorable. Thank you for the reminders on how to be a better mom. I just had the thought tonight that I need to smile more & be more engaging with strangers. Coincidence, I think not!

By: Katelyn Fagan

Katelyn Fagan — Tue, 24 Dec 2013 21:52:03 +0000

In reply to Corinne. You are very right! Finding my own personally enriching activities was such a great help in me being happier at home. This post is a little old, so I would definitely add that point to it now! I have found even having a great book to read can be personally rewarding.

By: Corinne

Corinne — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 14:02:46 +0000

When I had my son and decided to quit working to be at home with him, I struggled with the loss of identity. So, I would add to your list to make sure you set aside time to foster your own interests outside of the family whether they be volunteering, working out, or socializing.