I’m a fully-fledged adult, yet there are days when I get scolded for not being “fancy” enough or driving too fast, or even for belting out tunes like “Hello”—all thanks to my 4-year-old. There are moments when I crave simple joys that help me navigate through the chaos of motherhood, making me feel a bit more than just a human tissue dispenser. My kids certainly bring me joy, but they also share their uneaten food and a plethora of colds throughout the year.
It doesn’t take much to brighten my day, so here’s a list of things that might help you find a little sanity too:
- ‘80s Music
I’m talking about classics like “Total Eclipse of the Heart” or hits from Madonna and U2. These songs make me feel liberated from other people’s dramas. - Sunshine
Nothing beats the warmth of the sun. Sometimes I forget how much I need it until it’s been cloudy for too long and my kids start looking at me like I’m about to sprout horns. - Online Shopping
Whether it’s for practical items like noise-canceling headphones or fun things like giant bottles of chocolate wine (yes, it exists!). - Target
I know, it’s a cliché, but where else can I go for deodorant and end up with a cart full of things I didn’t know I needed? - A Quick Nap
I’ve mastered the art of sneaking in cat naps, whether it’s pretending to be a baby needing tucking in or playing hide-and-seek. - Controlling Just One Thing
When life feels chaotic, organizing my junk drawer can surprisingly restore my sanity. A little OCD? Maybe, but it works! - Comfy Pants
I won’t say yoga pants, but you know the vibe. And while I’m at it, ditching the bra can be a game changer for my outlook. - Coffee
I tried to go caffeine-free once, and quickly realized I enjoy being a functional human being who recognizes faces. - Old Journals
Glancing through my teenage angst and love letters makes me chuckle, especially when I’m surrounded by laundry piles. - Camaraderie
Chatting with other moms dealing with similar challenges reassures me that I’m not as crazy as I sometimes feel. - Friends Reruns
Watching comforting shows from my youth helps me escape to a time when my worries were fewer. - Carbs
Donuts, anyone? - A Bath with a Locked Door
Pure bliss. - Laughing at Online Fails
How did our parents survive without memes like “Damn You Autocorrect”? - Exercise
It may sound cliché, but a little movement releases endorphins that keep my sanity in check. - Grocery Shopping Alone
It’s sad but true—this feels like a luxurious escape sometimes. - Alcohol
This one’s a must-have on my list, or else I might lose my “Discount Liquors” punch card. - Throwing Plans Out the Window
Sometimes, ditching the agenda and treating myself to ice cream is the best therapy. - Celebrity Gossip
Reading about famous people reminds me that everyone has their struggles—even when they seem to have it all. - Just Accepting the Chaos
Sometimes, admitting that “today sucks” is liberating, especially when stepping in an unexpected mess from a tiny human.
So there you have it—who knew that a little humor and some comfort items could help keep us from becoming the ultimate stress case?
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Summary
Moms need small joys to navigate the challenges of parenting. From listening to ‘80s music and soaking up sunshine to indulging in online shopping and enjoying a peaceful bath, these simple pleasures can help maintain sanity. Whether it’s sharing laughs with friends, sneaking in naps, or embracing the chaos of motherhood, these strategies can make the tough days a bit brighter.