Staying Sane 101

How to stay sane: a stay home mom's guide.

1. You are responsible for your own sanity. No one can help you on that. Not your husband, your maid or your friends nor children.

2. You need to get out. Once a week, catch up with friends find out what is happening in the world, you will realise that your life isn't that bad after all.

3. Do something for yourself. Have a pedicure and manicure, go for a foot massage,get your hair washed in a salon. Try and do it at least once a month, because you have to look great to feel great. Sometimes it starts from the outside.

4. Ask for help, pay for help, beg for help. You are not super human. Realise your limitations and learn to find help.

5. Staying home is no excuse to look like the floor rug. Dress up and paint your face, it makes you feel better, people treat you better and your husband will definitely be nicer.

6. When you've had enough, it is alright to cry and let it out. No one is going to think that you are loser. Sometimes letting your guard down and showing some venerability can be an advantage.

7. Realise that no one owes you crap and you put yourself in this position. So stop blaming the world and take an aspirin.

8. If you get too weary from the routine of everyday life, take a break, the floor can be cleaned tomorrow and the laundry won't run away. Bring the kids to the playground and let them run around while you sit on your fat ass and watch them.

9. Most importantly you have to find an outlet, a sanctuary where you can be you. Some people write, some people sing in the shower, some paint, others run for miles. By the way shopping is not an outlet. It has to be something you can do as and when you feel the need to let off some steam and be alone. Rushing around a crowded mall and queueing up to try clothes is anything but relaxing.

10. Finally, every one's tolerance and equilibrium is different. Some have higher threshold, other's crumble at the sight of puke. So you have to find that balance that keeps you sane, a balance that is healthy. No 2 person are alike, wishing all you mommies out there good luck in your quest to be the best mother and yet still your own person.

*an understanding and loving husband does makes things easier, but if you don't have one, get a babysitter, find a maid, leave the kids with the in laws. If a problem can be solved with money it's not a problem. Here's to better mental health!*