How To Be A SAHM And Actually Thrive (Not Just Survive)

Alessandra | Posted on September 2, 2024 |

If you’re wondering how to be a SAHM without going crazy, you’re in the right place! You don’t have to just survive each day, you can truly thrive in this role and be the best mom ever!

Being a stay at home mom (SAHM) is an incredibly rewarding job, but if you find yourself wondering how to be a SAHM without losing your mind, you’re not alone. Many topics surrounding motherhood and SAHM life depict it as being so hard and overwhelming, that you must just have to be in survival mode every second. While some days this may be true, you don’t (and shouldn’t) have to feel like this all the time. You can truly thrive and fall in love with your role as a stay at home mom with these 8 hacks I’m sharing in this blog! But first, let’s discuss what the meaning of a SAHM is and some pros and cons about it!

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What Does SAHM Mean?

Simply put, SAHM is the abbreviation for stay at home mom. Which is, of course, a mother who chooses to leave the work force and make motherhood a full time job. While some may see this role as less demanding than a traditional job, the reality is that being a SAHM is a 24/7 commitment that involves managing the household, caring for the children, and often handling the family’s daily logistics. It can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can also be incredibly fulfilling.

Pros of Being a Stay At Home Mom

More time with your children and witnesses milestones first hand
Control over your child’s environment/activities/routines/etc.
Flexibility in your routine and being able to do whatever you want each day
Saving money on childcare costs
Less job stress

Cons of Being a Stay At Home Mom

Potential for isolation
Lack of personal time
Financial dependency
Loss of career momentum

Being a SAHM is definitely a unique and very personal choice that comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. Understanding both the pros and cons can help you navigate this role with greater awareness and balance. Everyone will have different views on these pros and cons, which is why there is such a variety of beliefs surrounding this role. You must decide what will work best for your family. Since you’ve probably decided to be a SAHM and that’s why you’ve stumbled across this blog, let’s dive into how to be a SAHM without completely losing your mind. I promise you can thrive every single day with these very reasonable tips!

How To be A SAHM And Actually Thrive

If you’re like me, you probably always knew you wanted to be a stay at home mom. For me, there was no other way! I grew up knowing I wanted to be a mom and I wanted to be home with my kids. That was important for my husband and me and we were able to make that happen. But it’s not always easy. Here are 8 ways you can be the SAHM you always dreamed you would be!

1. Create a Daily Routine

One of the keys to thriving as a SAHM is establishing a daily routine. Having a set schedule helps you manage your time effectively, ensures that all necessary tasks get done, and provides a sense of structure for both you and your children. Start your day with a plan, including specific times for meals, naps, playtime, and personal activities. A well-organized day can reduce stress and help you feel more in control.

2. Prioritize Self-Care

It’s easy to forget about yourself when you’re busy caring for everyone else, but self-care is essential to thriving as a SAHM. I know, because I’ve been down that road where I took care of everyone else but myself and I become completely burnt out. It’s not fun for anyone and it’s not fair for your kids! Make time each day for activities that recharge you, whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, a workout, or reading a book. Prioritizing your well-being is NOT selfish! It’s truly necessary for your mental and physical health. When you take care of yourself and fill up your own cup, you can be a much better mother to your children.

3. Set Realistic Expectations

Take all your expectations and basically through them out the window. Also remember that perfection is not the goal. Understand that some days will be more challenging than others, and that’s okay. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your household. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on progress and be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Remember that your best is enough, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it!

4. Stay Connected with Other Moms

This one is so, SO important! Our society loves to poke fun at being anti-social and not wanting to make mom friends, but then everyone complains there is no mom village. Being a SAHM can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re used to a busy social life pre-kids. So, make an effort to stay connected with other moms! Whether this is through playgroups, online communities, or mom meetups, it’s crucial to your ability to thrive. Sharing experiences and advice with others who understand your challenges can be incredibly comforting and can provide you with a valuable support system!

5. Involve Your Husband/Partner

Even though you may be the one staying at home, it’s important to involve your partner in parenting and household responsibilities. I know sometimes it’s easier said than done, but make sure to communicate openly about your needs and work together to share the load. Just because you stay home doesn’t mean your husband doesn’t have to help in maintaining your home. He should be helping your with the house and your children when he’s done work, no matter what! Having a supportive husband/partner can make a significant difference in how well you thrive in your role as a SAHM!

6. Embrace Flexibility

While routines are important, so is flexibility. Children are unpredictable, and some days won’t go according to plan. Kids get sick, have tantrums, or just don’t listen haha! Learning to adapt and go with the flow will help you stay calm and reduce frustration. Embrace the chaos when it comes, and remind yourself that it’s all part of the journey.

7. Change Your Mindset

One of the most powerful strategies for thriving as a SAHM is changing your mindset. It’s easy to fall into the trap of victimhood and seeing your role as overwhelming or undervalued, but shifting your perspective can make all the difference. Instead of viewing your daily tasks as chores, try to see them as opportunities to nurture your children and create a loving home environment. Embrace the idea that you are not “just” a mom, but a pivotal figure in your children’s lives, shaping their future and well-being. By focusing on the positives and finding purpose in the small, everyday moments, you can transform your experience from merely surviving to truly thriving. This mindset shift allows you to approach each day with more gratitude, patience, and fulfillment, helping you to enjoy your role as a SAHM even more.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

Thriving as a SAHM often comes down to your perspective. Celebrate the small wins, whether it’s getting the laundry done, having a good day with the kids, or simply making it through a tough moment. Acknowledging these victories, no matter how minor, can boost your morale and keep you motivated. You celebrate your child’s each and every milestone, so why not celebrate your own as a growing mother?!

Final Thoughts

Being a SAHM is a challenging yet rewarding role that requires a lot of love, patience, and resilience. You knew that though, I’m sure! What you may not have known is that you can truly thrive each day when you’re a stay at home mom despite those challenged. By implementing these 8 strategies, I really believe you can move beyond “just surviving” each day and thrive and enjoy your role as a stay at home mom! Remember, you don’t have to do it alone either. Lean on your support system, take care of yourself, and embrace the journey with all its ups and downs. You’ve got this!

If you find yourself thinking often that you’re “surviving another day” or you’re “drowning in motherhood” then I have just the thing for you! Check out my Motherhood Burnout Guide for my top secrets to getting your mom-mojo back! Learn more below.

Get Your Motherhood Burnout Guide Here

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