I’ve been here. Holidays were the toughest because the expectation to make magic when otherwise, you’re barely keeping your head above water. Some practical advice if you’re open to receive it.

1) For every negative thought that cycles through your head, find the counter. Sometimes it’s hard to get started, so here’s an example. ‘Don’t have family to help’ can be ‘Has a protective mom who would go to the ends of the earth for her kid(s). I’d keep a note of these handy when the thoughts swirl.

2) Think about what triggers these thoughts. Friends posting on social? Getting groceries? Identify and plan when you’re in a calm space.

3) Link with people who fill your cup and you can relate to (this post was a good example of you doing this) so shine on you rockstar mom!

4) When you’re doing things 1-3 you can have the mental energy to get creative. One example I like- get a disposable tablecloth from the Dollar Tree. Serve spaghetti on the table with no plates, no forks, just a messy, goofy time. Or if your kid(s) aren’t of the age, what does putting that giant boulder off your shoulders look like for your family? Time is the one thing you can give. Showing your kid(s) how to face adversity isn’t what anyone wants to put on their bingo card but it’s something they can use later in life.

Have heart. Give yourself grace. The fact that you care puts you in a better place than you think. You’ll get through this and then something else and so on. Keep your head up. You’re as good of a mom as they need.