5 Ways to Turn A Bad Day Around

Monday was one of those terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad days. Do you have those too? The kids were awful and I was in a really bad mood. Tessa refused to put a shirt on (plus was up from midnight to 3 am), and I yelled at Eli by 9 am. Then I accidentally put the mac & cheese noodles in dirty dishwater, and my house was a disaster.

Sometimes as a stay-at-home mom, I feel like these days are my new normal. Everything goes wrong, I'm overwhelmed, and I'm home alone with these crazy children of mine. It can be tough to get out of the rut of discouragement when every day feels the same.

I find I often need a push from outside myself to get going again. A reminder from a friend, a text from my husband, a nice store salesperson, to help me remember that everything is going to be ok. So here is my push to you. If you're having a rough day, here are five ways to help reset your mood and redeem your day.



1. Get some alone time. 
I know, I know, you have little ones and this is impossible. Let's be honest, I don't even go to the bathroom alone. You'd be surprised, though, what a cup of goldfish and an episode of Daniel Tiger will accomplish. Don't feel guilty for taking a few minutes away from your kids (while they're safely occupied) to collect yourself. Even a quick chocolate bar snuck in the pantry can do the trick!

2. Listen to music.
Music can change your mood with a quick push of a button. Grab your phone and crank up a fun song to help re-set yourself. As a bonus, your kids will think it's super fun.

3. Exercise.
I'm going to be honest with you- I. Hate. Exercise. Like really really hate it. BUT, I've recently discovered that it makes me feel happier, healthier, and more engergetic. Find something that fits your life, schedule, and preferences. I currently do yoga at our local YMCA while my kids are in their child watch. I know other moms who do Pinterest workouts or YouTube videos. Find your fit and go for it!

4. Clean something.
This one might seem counter-intuitive, but often creating a clean environment around you can give your soul peace. Give your kids a cloth and let them "dust" while you get the real work done, and you'll be so glad that at least one room in your house is clean!

5. Do something you love.
I find that as a mom of young kids, my time is spent on the kids and I don't get much for myself. My hobbies often fall by the wayside. It's so important to find time to do what you love, and to make time for it, even if you're exhausted. So find a friend to help watch your kids, or sneak away during naptime to do something. I promise if you look hard enough you'll find a little time to do something you love.

And if none of these work, put yourself to bed early and remember: You are loved. Nothing beats that.