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- The Mother’s Commitment by Lila Thompson
- Updated: Aug. 21, 2015
- Originally Published: Jan. 16, 2012
I will work hard to fill our days with joy, connection, laughter, play, fresh experiences, learning, healthy meals and snacks, and well-timed rest for everyone involved.
I will plan playdates with other moms and their little ones because they help us maintain our sanity. However, if we encounter a day filled with tears, sibling disputes, boredom, junk food, and missed nap times, I will embrace the chaos and strive for a brighter tomorrow.
I will resist the urge to consume a whole bag of M&Ms, chips, or gummy bears to soothe my frustrations, as that will only lead to a larger waistline. Instead, I’ll turn to my friends via text for support and promptly usher the kids outside for fresh air and adventure. If it rains and outdoor fun is off the table, I won’t feel like the universe is against me. I’ll devise a backup plan—even if it’s just a trip to Target.
While navigating the aisles of Target or any other store, I will aim to be budget-conscious. I won’t let myself be swayed by an $8 box of organic cookies at Whole Foods. I will harness the power of the Internet, magazines, and recommendations from others to discover free or low-cost activities. I’ll also utilize Groupon to ensure I never pay full price for fun outings.
I’ll choose positivity over negativity, opting for constructive requests rather than a harsh “no.” I’ll show empathy instead of chastisement, explain instead of yell, supervise instead of patronize, and take deep breaths instead of seething. Thank you, Charles.
I will carve out time for exercise to keep my mood balanced and to avoid that “four-month pregnant” appearance that calls for a new wardrobe. I’ll recognize the importance of personal time and, if it’s overdue and I find myself feeling overwhelmed, I will make a plan. I’ll arrange childcare, slip into exercise or even cocktail attire, and step out of the house for a breather.
In the face of meltdowns, I will stay calm and firm. I won’t get swept up in the storm of emotions my child may throw at me. I’ll offer them space or comfort, depending on what they need most, while ensuring their safety by discreetly placing a blanket or towel nearby during their tantrums.
On Sundays, I’ll prepare a list of dinners for the upcoming week to avoid last-minute stress each evening at 5:00 p.m. Sleep will be prioritized; when my kids are down for their naps, I will take that time to rest rather than getting sidetracked by chores, calls, emails, or the captivating rabbit hole of social media. I’ll set an alarm if necessary to ensure I wake up refreshed and ready to tackle dinner prep or just enjoy some quiet time.
I’ll acknowledge that potty training is a journey, and while it may take time, my children won’t be voting in presidential elections while still in diapers. I’ll use the television as a helpful tool in moderation and won’t shy away from it—PBS is quality content!
I’ll also invest energy into my relationship with my partner, nurturing our bond as spouses, not just as parents. Staying informed about the latest parenting research and ideas will be a priority for me, as I strive to be more like June Cleaver than Roseanne. However, I will not beat myself up for the things I forget or cannot manage; motherhood is a journey, after all.
Even if I stumble, raise my voice, or allow my kids to watch more than an hour of their favorite show each day, I will remind myself that I am a good mother—without a doubt. And they are as fortunate to have me as I am to have them.
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In summary, motherhood is a blend of joy, challenges, and growth. Embracing the chaos while striving for balance can lead to fulfilling experiences for both mothers and their children.