Feature
July, 03 2008
Mom, Do You Know You?
by Mia Redrick
Remember the song from the movie Mahogany? The song went, "Do you know where you're going to? Do you like the things that life is showing you? Do you get what you're hoping for? When you look behind you, are there no open doors? Do you know?
This month, let's discuss your plans for your life. What are they? I bet if I asked you to tell me your family's plans for the month, you could come up with a host of activities. In addition, you probably know the list of to-do's that your spouse needs to accomplish as well. What about you? What are your plans? What are you going to do when you grow up?
The time is now for you to answer these questions. As moms, we often forget to dream for ourselves. Many times we ride on the dreams of our husband's and children's accomplishments and forget that we can dream the impossible dream for us. When we work toward a goal, it fuels and fills us. It gives us a new sense of purpose. Also, it sets the right example for our children; that we can self-accomplish and be nurturing and loving.
Have you ever said to yourself that you were going to go back to school or pursue a new interest when your child reaches that magical age? When that age arrives, you find that you have forgotten what it was that was once important to you. This is why as a mom you must not delay but must decide what you want to do with your life. Here are four steps to help you act today:
1. Write down five things that you want to do with your life. Remove all limitations, and dream big!
2. What does each of these goals require? (For example, to attend graduate school I might need to take evening or weekend courses, when child-care is most available from my family.)
3. List five reasons that you think this idea won't work. Answer the following questions for each:
- How can this opportunity work?
- What do I have to overcome to accomplish this? (Do you need child-care, financing, or is it plain motivation?)
4. What are the benefits? What will I gain by venturing into this new experience? Will I make new friends, learn something new, expand my earning power?
5. Get your questions answered before making any decisions. Don't talk yourself out of what you want. Get all the facts first. Then make an informed decision.
Live Fully,
Mia
About the Author
Mia Redrick, an author of Time for mom-Me: 5 Essential Strategies for A Mother's Self- Care, lecturer, radio personality, personal coach and mother of three young children. She is a leader in the push for the self-care-care of mothers, and shares her wisdom on how to raise children without sacrificing personal needs. Mia's campaign is to tell "One Million Moms " that their self-care is important. Her website is www.findingdefinitions.com. Want a free report on eliminating mommy burnout click here: http://www.findingdefinitions.com/Books/mommy-burn-out.pdf.
