20 Things That Keep Moms Sane(ish)

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As a fully grown adult, I often find myself being chastised by my own children for not dressing up enough, driving too fast, or for belting out “Hello” like I’m auditioning for a talent show—courtesy of my 4-year-old. Some days, I just need a little something to help me navigate the chaos of motherhood, those tiny moments of joy that remind me I’m not just a walking tissue box. My kids certainly bring me joy, but they also deliver a constant stream of uneaten food and a revolving door of colds.

It doesn’t take much to lift my spirits, so here’s a list of 20 things that might help you find your zen too:

1. ‘80s Jams
   Nothing like the anthems of yesteryear, from “Total Eclipse of the Heart” to Madonna and U2, to make me feel like I can ditch everyone else’s nonsense for a hot minute.
2. Sunlight
   I forget how much I need sunshine until it’s MIA, and my kids start eyeing me nervously when I turn my head.
3. Online Shopping
   Whether it’s noise-canceling headphones or a giant jug of chocolate wine (yes, it exists), browsing online is a little slice of heaven.
4. Target
   I know it’s basic, but where else can I pop in for deodorant and emerge with a cart full of “essentials” that definitely aren’t deodorant?
5. Naptime Mastery
   I’ve perfected the art of sneaking in cat naps, even while the kids are around. I can charm my way into “being a baby” or playing hide-and-seek to find a cozy corner.
6. Control a Single Thing
   When life feels like a whirlwind, organizing my junk drawer can bring a surprising sense of calm—call it my personal version of therapy.
7. Comfy Pants
   Forget yoga; I’m talking about those gloriously soft, stretchy pants that make me feel like I’m floating through life, sans the bra.
8. Caffeine Fix
   I once attempted to quit caffeine, but then I remembered I enjoy being a functioning human who recognizes their loved ones.
9. Nostalgic Journals
   Flipping through old diaries or love letters can be hilariously eye-opening, especially when I see how melodramatic my younger self was.
10. Sisterhood
    Chatting with other moms who are navigating similar hurdles reminds me that I’m not alone in this wild ride.
11. Friends Reruns
    Revisiting my favorite shows helps me reconnect with a version of myself that had fewer responsibilities and a bit more elasticity in her skin.
12. Sweet Carbs
    Donuts, need I say more?
13. A Bath Behind Closed Doors
    Nothing says “I made it through the day” quite like a long soak with a locked door.
14. Internet Humor
    I honestly don’t know how our mothers survived without the joys of platforms like Damn You Autocorrect.
15. Exercise
    I know, I know—this sounds annoyingly healthy, but a little movement helps keep my sanity intact.
16. Solo Grocery Trips
    It may be sad, but a trip to the store alone feels like a mini-vacation.
17. A Little Wine
    I feel like I should include this for the sake of my Discount Liquors punch card.
18. Spontaneity
    Sometimes, ditching the day’s plans for an ice cream run can be the best therapy.
19. Celebrity Gossip
    Reading about famous folks with seemingly perfect lives, who still have to wrangle kids in public, is a little comforting.
20. Embracing the Chaos
    Sometimes, just acknowledging that “Today freaking sucks” is liberating—especially when stepping on an unidentified mess left by a child.

So there you have it—who knew that a simple bagel could be the turning point from frazzled to fabulous? For more insights on navigating parenthood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy. And if you’re looking for more tips on home insemination, visit this informative post or check out Make a Mom for some great advice.

Summary:

Motherhood can be a wild ride filled with joy, chaos, and the need for moments of sanity. From nostalgic ‘80s music and the comforting warmth of the sun to online shopping and the solace of a quiet bath, these 20 tips can help moms find a little peace amidst the madness.