5 Ways to Manage a Family As a Woman

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If you are one of the lucky women out there who is married with children, managing your family can be difficult at times. Your spouse and kids will rely on you to be the glue that holds everything together, and it’s an important job that can sometimes take over your life. To make sure you have time to focus on yourself and your own needs, try these five ways to manage a family as a woman.

1) Set realistic expectations

Because women are often so adept at multi-tasking, it’s tempting to take on too much and expect ourselves to keep up with it all. The thing is, we can’t. No matter how hard we try, juggling responsibilities can quickly get overwhelming and that leads to stress. Rather than become angry or resentful over what you didn’t finish, set realistic expectations for yourself. You don’t have to be supermom after all! Figure out what really needs done and let go of anything that isn’t necessary in order for you and your family life to run smoothly.

2) Show your kids you are fun

Don’t be afraid to have fun with your kids. Show them that you enjoy being around them and being involved in their lives. Kids love knowing that mom or dad has a great sense of humor and isn’t too serious all of the time, even if there are some things they have to be serious about. That doesn’t mean you should let your child walk all over you, but it does mean they shouldn’t fear what will happen when they disappoint you. Your kids will know from experience that disappointing you won’t result in punishments or consequences – there won’t always be an iron fist behind your love me and treat me well, because I love you and want us to get along just fine!

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3) Help yourself before you help others

You have probably heard that it’s important to care for yourself before caring for others. This is true in every aspect of life and includes your family. Since most women are responsible for maintaining their families, it’s important that you take time for yourself and your own needs. Prioritize sleep, diet, exercise, and fun—anything else can wait. Take time each day just for you—you’ll feel more relaxed and at ease with everyone else in your life if you do!

4) Understand your limits

Most women are acutely aware of their limits in terms of time, energy and physical ability. Accepting your limitations can help you avoid being stressed out by tasks or people that aren’t really worth your time. For example, if you have an 8-year-old child who loves soccer but also loves video games, don’t assume you can squeeze in weekly practices without overbooking yourself. Prioritize (or negotiate) with your child; perhaps he could try out for one team instead of two. Taking control means working within your limits—not pushing beyond them—and it will save both you and your family from unnecessary stress and disappointment.

5) Give yourself permission to say no

Often, women worry about appearing too mean or bitchy when they decline an invitation. But if you are stretched thin and don’t feel like you can give each event 100% of your attention, it’s okay to decline some invitations. Saying no doesn’t have to be selfish; it actually makes you more available for other people—and less frazzled in general. If your family needs time with you, or if there’s an issue that needs your undivided attention, say no without any apology (because there isn’t one needed). Your relationships will be stronger for it.