In a previous article, I discussed the importance of taking off the ‘Super Mom’ cape and giving yourself grace. Trust me, I know it is easier said than done. Heck! My cape is barely off. It is definitely a process. So, I wanted to give you a few tips and hacks that I have learned along the way to help you out.
Self-Care
While self-care is super important, it can also be time-consuming. One trick I have learned is at-home spa treatments. It’s usually a weeknight after I get the kids to bed, I light a candle, pour a glass of wine, turn on Pandora and pamper myself. Some skin care products can be really expensive, but most drugstores have some affordable options that won’t break you out. In a matter of minutes your skin will be healthy and glowing and you will be recharged.
I usually go to a nail shop to treat myself to a mani/pedi. But if time or finances does not allow it, there are tons of DIY options. When COVID hit, we all scrambled when the nail salons closed, and press-on nails became famous again. Let me tell you, press on nails have really stepped their game up! You can find them in different lengths, shapes, colors, and designs. They are very easy to apply and last a good while depending on how rough you are. With a quick click of a mouse, you can order the supplies to apply your own shellac, gel, or acrylic nails. Watch a few YouTube videos and you will be a pro!
Getting a massage can instantly recharge you and change your mood. If a massage is not in your budget, check out one of the local massage therapy schools, many times they offer discounts if you are willing to let the students practice on you. This little hack also works for facials, many of the local esthetician schools offer free or discounted services.
Housekeeping
As an adult housekeeping is an endless chore of ours. I have learned a few tips from fellow moms to help me along the way. My number one tip is to clean a little each day. I try to make sure the house is ‘presentable’ before going to bed. I have made it part of my night routine. In the morning before we leave the house, I clean up from the morning’s activities. It is very calming to come home from work and the house is clean. Take a few minutes each morning to make your bed, you will be surprised how good it feels to walk into your bedroom and see that nice inviting bed waiting for you. And it makes the room look neater.
Investing in housekeeping tools and supplies is also very helpful. I recently purchased one of those fancy mops that wrings itself out. Game changer! It has actually made me enjoy doing the floors. It is truly a different level of adulting when you are excited about household products. There are tons of Instagram and Tik Tok videos that give awesome cleaning hacks and show cleaning supplies that are not on the shelves in our local grocery. Check a few out!
Outsourcing
Outsourcing responsibilities is a great way to simplify your life. Hand over the chores and things you hate to do to someone that loves to do it.
Hiring a housekeeper is a great way to outsource. Whether you hire someone to clean your home on a weekly basis or just for the deep cleaning, it is a lifesaver. This is on my list of things to do in the near future.
One thing that has simplified my life and saved tons of time is outsourcing certain tasks. For instance, I utilize grocery pick-up and grocery delivery. The amount of time these services saves is ridiculous! It also saves money; you can’t pick up unnecessary stuff. The money you save can be used for your self-care!
If you don’t like to shop for clothes there are websites that will shop for you. Fill out a simple questionnaire and you can have a box of clothes delivered to your doorstep in a few days. Many local boutiques offer personal shopper services.
Hate to cook? Try a meal prep service. Many grocery stores offer family-size or individual meals. There are also many businesses that offer prepared meals for any diet type. If cooking is your thing, but you don’t have the time to cook daily meals, try meal prepping. Give yourself a few hours and make a few meals so you can options for the week. If you know you are embarking on a busy season, make freezer meals. Another time saver is instant pot and crock pot meals, put them on, clean the house, do your self-care, or better yet, relax.
I hope these tips can help you simplify your life and take off the cape. Remember that done is better than perfect. Refill your cup and continue to give yourself all of the grace.
I would love to hear some of your tips and hacks. What are some things you do to simplify your life?
