Mom's Joy Blueprint: 6 Fast and Effective Ways to Inject Fun in Your Busy Life

Laurie Moser . Published December 4, 2023

Source: unsplash

As mom to a teen struggling with mental health challenges, this time of the year can have added layers of stress for you. Your days are often a whirlwind of responsibilities, from managing the household, to therapy sessions, appointments, every day errands and trying to nurture your family. In the middle of this constant juggling act, it's easy to overlook a crucial component of your well-being—fun and joy.

Let’s explore why it's vital for moms to prioritize joy and offer six practical ways to inject more fun into our daily lives.

The Importance of Your Joy: A Ripple Effect

The well-known saying, "Happy mom, happy home," holds profound truth. When moms prioritize their own joy, it creates a positive ripple effect throughout the entire family. Joyful moms are more patient, more present, and better equipped to handle the challenges that come their way. Taking time for ourselves isn't a selfish act; it's an investment in the overall happiness and harmony of the household.

6 ways to infuse joy into your daily life

1. Schedule "Me Time" Regularly:

Block out dedicated time for yourself on a regular basis. No time: schedule 5 minutes for yourself. YOU have 5 minutes, your mental health is worth 5 minutes. Whether it's reading a book, taking a quick walk, or enjoying a hobby, this intentional "me time" allows you to recharge and reconnect with your own interests and passions.

2. Explore Playful Activities with Your Kids:

Engage in playful activities with your kids, whether it's a favourite family board game, crafting together, going on a walk, baking or watching a movie together. The shared laughter and enjoyment will create lasting memories for both you and your kids. Even better, let the kids pick the activity. If they can’t agree, you decide or take turns with having kids pick the activity.

3. Prioritize Laughter and Humor:

Make a conscious effort to incorporate laughter into your daily routine. Whether it's watching a funny movie, sharing jokes with friends, telling a funny story at the dinner table, laughter has a remarkable ability to uplift spirits and provide a sense of joy and fun. Laughter has the ability to instantly change the atmosphere!

4. Connect with Other Moms:

Being a Mom can sometimes feel isolating, but you're not alone in your journey. Connect with other moms for coffee, walks, or even a moms' night out. Sharing experiences, challenges, and laughter with fellow moms create a sense of community, connection and support.

5. Embrace Spontaneity:

Break away from routine and embrace spontaneity. Plan impromptu outings, try a new restaurant, a new recipe or simply take a detour during your daily walk. Allowing for unexpected moments of joy keeps life exciting and prevents it from becoming monotonous.

6. Rediscover a Childhood Hobby:

Ask yourself, what did you love doing as a kid and then take a trip down memory lane by rediscovering a hobby or activity you enjoyed as a child but have now forgotten about it. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, lego, or even rollerblading, engaging in activities that once brought you joy can reignite a sense of playfulness and nostalgia.

In the middle of your busy life, it's crucial for YOU to prioritize joy, especially when you’re navigating the challenges and uncertainty of raising a teen with mental health struggles. By actively seeking out and incorporating fun into your daily routine, you not only enhance your own well-being but also contribute to a happier and more harmonious family life. Injecting joy isn't a luxury—it's a necessity for the soul. So, moms, let's embrace the beauty of fun and ensure that our days are filled with small moments that light up our hearts and nourish our spirits.

Remember, the key is to find activities that resonate with you personally and bring genuine happiness. Injecting joy & fun into your life isn't about adding more to your to-do list; it's about making intentional choices that prioritize your well-being and create a positive atmosphere for both you and your family.

LAURIE MOSER

Laurie Moser is an advocate for moms’ mental health. Supporting moms who have teens with mental health challenges using self-care tools & group support. Laurie has been featured by Focus on the Family, Real Biz Moms, Tracking Happiness and a guest on 5 Minutes for Me App, Voice of Women (VOW) and I Never Knew (INK).