Guideline To Success

Few weeks ago I was talking to an old friend from home and after the usual chit chat and oohing and ahhing over my babies, my childless and employed pal slightly bewildered asked me, “So . . . what do you do all day? Are you happy??”I explained that what I did was so much more than changing diapers, cooking meals or cleaning house; there are wonderful, fulfilling aspects of stay-at-home mothering that make the routine care of family and home rewarding. I’m happy knowing my boys are being cared for by the person who loves them most and appreciate being there to watch them reach even minor achievement.As go success and failure with nearly any job, there are definite ways to make it or break it as a full-time mum. So I decided to share my 10 rule guideline that's been helping me through this time. 

1-Make your children a priority
This may sound obvious and unnecessary since you’ve already made the decision to be home with your kids, but sometimes moms get so caught up in running the household the children don’t receive the attention they need. Maintaining the house is important, but don’t get so busy with housework, phone calls, paying the bills, and surfing the Internet that you miss great times with your kids and lose sight of your main reasons for being home.
2-Keep house and strive for balance
Although housework shouldn't take all your time and energy, it is necessary for anyone who wants to enjoy the stay-home experience. It’s much more pleasant spending each day in a clean, organised environment. There’s no need to be a neat freak or expend all your energy on chores,if you can't afford someone to help you when they are really young you can always schedule a cleaning routine and make it a “hobby,” your quality of life at home will improve and you’ll set a good example for your children.
3-With the flowers comes a little dirt
Understand and accept that, as with most jobs, being a stay-home mom brings its own set of challenges: full-time mothering may be the most socially undervalued profession there is. Particularly if you come from a busy career background, the switch to being a stay-home mom may bring its own version of culture shock. You may experience loneliness, boredom, frustration, and find yourself struggling with unexpected self-esteem issues. Remind yourself of your conviction. Your mate’s support is crucial in those times. Meet your challenges head-on and use them to become a stronger person. The worthwhile benefits of being home with your kids are likely to outweigh the struggles.
4-Don’t forget your partner
He needs your love and attention, too. Your marriage should be a priority and not pushed aside while the children are young. Nurturing your relationship may be the factor your children will look to in achieving their own sense of security, and as a model in building their own relationships later on. When the kids are grown and you’re experiencing the empty nest, you’ll be glad you’ve nurtured your relationship with your mate.
5-Interact with other adults
Don’t isolate yourself. Acknowledge your need for adult companionship and deal with it. Staying in touch with adults, especially other moms, is key to keeping your sanity. If you think you need constant interaction try joining a playgroup, parenting class, church group, and so on to get involved. And if you’re comfortable leaving your kids home with dad or a sitter, try a night out! Dinner with a group from the neighbourhood, seeing a movie with a girlfriend, or getting together for cards or game night can be a great way to regain a sense of self and have fun in a role other than mom.
6-Keep your mind sharp
Don’t let your brain turn to mush! Keep up with current affairs, read, do a crossword puzzle once in a while, or try a new hobby. Check your local college or community centre for classes that interest you. Being able to have an intelligent conversation at the end of the day on grown-up points of interest will help with the need for adult exchange.
7-Watch the books
Staying on top of the finances is crucial, especially if you’re making the adjustment from two incomes to one. Setting a budget and sticking to it may not always be fun or easy, but it’s important to avoid the stress of not being able to pay the bills or put money aside. 
8-Baby your body
Many moms are natural nurturers when it comes to their family’s health but neglect to take care of themselves. Remember that care for yourself is just as important! After all, this particular job rarely offers the sick day option! Keep current with medical and dental appointments. Get involved in a physical activity, whether it’s walking the kids in a stroller or going for a bike ride. Don’t forget to pamper yourself on occasion with a hot bath, a fresh haircut, or a cute new outfit. You’ll be surprised how a little pampering of mom positively affects the entire family!
9-Avoid cabin fever
Getting out of the house is important for you and the kids—even they need a change of scenery once in a while. A trip to the park is a fun way to pass the day and make lasting memories with your children. Even an outing to the store or walk around the block can boost your spirits, particularly if you’re still in the first phase of motherhood.
10-Be glad that you’re home
Your confidence in your choice to stay home with your children is vital to your sense of happiness and good parenting. Being proud of your choice doesn't mean putting down other mothers who may have different parenting styles, but rather it is knowing you are doing what is right and best for your family.