Manic Monday: Part One

Last week I introduced a series called Manic Monday. A series that will share the tips and tricks I use to keep my life as stress free as possible. I go in to more detail here so be sure to check it out.  In that post I promised to share a simple change that literally revolutionized my entire life.  So simple yet so profound.  Seriously. 

My simple change was getting dressed completely before Riley ever woke up.  A lot of Moms automatically dismiss this suggestion.  The responses I get vary greatly and it all ties back to how they define "completely dressed."  I define it as hair done, full makeup, jewelry and any other accessories, and a nice presentable outfit.  Something I would not be embarrassed to be seen in if my car had a flat tire and I was stranded on the side of the road. 

From this simple change many other changes have occurred and I will expand on them as this series progresses, but what I realized right away is how much better I felt.  I was ready to go out and do things and have interactions with other adults. 

Before this change I was that mom from the old Suave commercial.  Remember the one?  The mom looked disheveled in sweats, spit up on her, hair a mess and kids hanging off of her and they ask something like "Let yourself go?  Take back control of your hair with Suave."  Or something close to that! 

That's exactly how I felt.  Gross.  And it was because I didn't make "looking presentable" a priority.  It's easy as a Mom to put the needs of everybody else above our own.  When I became aware of this, it really did start the journey of a profound change in my life.  I started evaluating what I wanted and gave myself permission to make me a priority.  And it started by getting up before anyone else did.

I can hear the groans now, waking up earlier seems awful to some.  Believe me, anyone that knows me well can attest that I am NOT a morning person.  But I am a Mom who wants to feel good during the day!  So it was worth it to me to try. 

And what about your husband or significant other? Don't they deserve to come home to you looking nice?  I admit I was not looking like someone I would want to come home to at the end of the day!  Something to think about.

This week I am challenging you to get up before the kids and get completely dressed.  You can do it!  It will make all the difference in the world.  It did for me!  I would also love to know how you are doing with it and I will be happy to answer any questions.  So feel free to comment below or send me and email. 

Stay Fabulous,