Tips on Keeping Life Balanced as a SAHM

Finding balance in life as a SAHM is a challenging task. It can also be a very rewarding experience if one is willing to give it their all. A SAHM has fulltime job -- it is to take care of the home and needs of her husband and growing family. A SAHM should be willing to put as much into caring for her home/family as she would a job outside the home. If she follows this tidbit of advice she will reap many blessings.

The Scriptures detail characteristics of a virtuous women in Proverbs 31:10-31. This woman's organizational skills are amazing, but necessary for the home to run efficiently. One example she set that I have found exceptionally helpful is -- rising early in the morning. It provides one adequate time to physically and emotionally prepare for the day at hand. It is an opportune time to get dressed, start laundry, load/unload the dishwasher, pay some bills, and check your daily planner without interruption. Establishing a daily routine will remove a lot of stress from your life.

It is essential to have a list of 'to do' jobs each day. I divided my weekly cleaning list up and do several jobs each day. It is advisable to prioritize each task on the list in case you have unexpected interruptions. It is important to be flexible, because a SAHM faces a multitude of interruptions from the children each day.

Most women find it extremely isolating to be deprived of adult conversation. Make it a priority to call a few friends or family members each day. Another option is join a playgroup -- either secular or religious. You will find conversing with other SAHM's supportive and encouraging. It will also be beneficial for your children to play with other children.

Take a short break to read a chapter (or two) in a book, write email, exercise or scrapbook while your children nap. It will give you a fresh and/or renewed perspective on the remainder of your day.

If you home school your children that adds an additional responsibility. I home schooled my older children for four years. So, I can say from first hand experience that it is a fulfilling, but heavy load for the SAHM. For the past four years I have chauffeured my children to/from school each day. We seldom turn on the radio or listen to a CD while traveling to/from school. I find the commute an excellent time for conversation about what is going on in the lives of my children.

Quality time spent caring for your home and children is not wasted time.