Have you been feeling overwhelmed and looking for ways to be a happy mom again? These tested and approved daily habits are simple and effective ways to transform you into a happy and more fulfilled person.
Let’s not sugarcoat it. Motherhood can be difficult. It’s stressful, demanding, and tiring. Our time and our body are no longer our own.
It can be hard to be happy when you feel like you’re not in control of your day-to-day activities or personal life.
All of this combined really impacts our mood and mindset each and every day. Especially as a new mom, getting used to an all-new way of life can be difficult. I know because I have been there too.
Of course, some days are better than others, but how about we change that around and make every day a good day?
Practicing these simple habits will change the course of your day from start to finish. These tips will effect you in a positive way and help make you a happy mom, which will reflect in all aspects of your life. You will be excited to wake up each morning, ready to take on the day.
We will go over effective habits to create during your morning routine and actions to take throughout your day to keep you happy and thriving no matter what comes your way.
This Post Is All About The Simple Daily Habits Of A Happy Mom.
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How Can Habits Help You Become A Happier Mom?
Habits can play a significant role in shaping your overall happiness and well-being. They provide a sense of stability and predictability in our lives which significantly impact our mindset.
It is common for mothers to feel like they don’t have time for themselves or don’t feel like they are accomplishing their goals since their day revolves around their children. This is where developing and maintaining habits can really change your life.
You will feel a sense of accomplishment and progress when you maintain your habits. You will no longer be living the mundane life you were accustomed to. When you set goals and work towards them through consistent routines, you experience a sense of achievement when you make progress or achieve milestones.
This feeling of progress can boost your self-esteem and increase happiness.
These habits will also affect your physical and mental well-being. When you prioritize the practices I have listed, you’ll likely experience increased energy, improved mood, reduced stress levels, and overall better health, leading to greater happiness.
By implementing habits, you will see and feel so much personal growth and fulfillment, creating a much happier you in your daily life.
17 Habits Of A Happy Mom
Don’t Go To Bed Late
After a long day of parenting and putting your little ones to bed, you get some well-deserved free time to yourself. You may want to get some stuff done that you couldn’t do during the day. Or maybe you want to just plop down on the couch and watch your show with your spouse.
I know I am a culprit for doing both. I get caught up finishing leftover work and chores or scrolling my phone. Then I realize it’s already 11 pm, and I need to get up early the next day.
If this sounds like you, I’m right there with you. It can be easy to stay up longer than expected because you finally have some free time to do what you want.
Setting a bedtime is one of the best habits you can create for yourself. Going to bed at a decent time made a massive difference in my mornings, which set the intention for the oncoming day.
Getting enough sleep is imperative so you can function properly in the morning. There is not much worse than being exhausted the next day while taking care of your high-energy kids or fussy baby.
When you are well rested, you will have a considerable advantage in being able to have a productive day. If you can fall asleep by 9 pm, that is ideal. If that is not you, Jump in bed by 9 pm so you can hopefully fall asleep by 10 pm.
Wake Up An Hour Before Your Kids
Waking up an hour before your kids on a regular basis is the ultimate way to start your day! If you have difficulty waking up early, start by waking up 30 minutes before and gradually increase to an hour. It’s easier to do then you think!
TIP: Using a Hatch Restore is a game changer when it comes to an alarm. It gently wakes you up with light that mimics the sunrise. It is highly effective and so much better than a blaring alarm!
When you wake up early and have alone time for yourself, you will start your day with a clear and relaxed mindset. You will be able to mentally prepare for the day ahead, which will increase your productivity and even your energy.
Infusing self-care into your morning routine will create a positive mindset that will carry you through the day. Create a morning routine for yourself that is easy enough for you to accomplish daily.
When you wake up to the sound of a crying baby or rowdy kids, you immediately go into fight or flight mode. This is a shock to the brain first thing in the morning and not how you want to start your day, so waking up early is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
Related Post: How To Rock Your Morning Routine With A Newborn
No Social Media In The Morning
I know this one can be a tough one for a lot of people, myself included. It’s become a habit for many of us to check our phone first thing in the morning while trying to fully wake up or while on the toilet.
It will be so beneficial to your mental health to not pick up the phone until at least after breakfast.
It can be so tempting to check the news feed to see what’s going on in the world of social media or check out any news updates. But in reality, none of those things are super important. Your mental health is much more important.
TIP: If you need help with this, an easy solution is to keep your phone in another room while you do your morning routine. Out of sight, out of mind.
Meditate
Meditation is one of the best activities to add to your daily routine. I highly suggest adding it to your morning routine. Meditating is so beneficial because it reduces stress, increases self-awareness, promotes emotional stability, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens your immune system.
Meditating in the morning will put you in a good mood and set you on the right path for the rest of the day.
If you start your day in a good mood, you will have a higher chance of being happy and positive throughout the day. When I am in a good mood, I get more creative with the day, like taking my daughter to different parks we haven’t been to or doing some fun sensory activities.
Gratitude Journal
Gratitude Journaling is another fantastic activity to add to your morning routine. You can journal about all things in your life that you are grateful for, big or small.
When you practice gratitude, it will put your mind in a positive space. It is so easy to get caught up with everything you wish you had or wish you looked like, but when you write down and see all the things you have and are grateful for, you will feel an overwhelming feeling of joy and gratitude.
Being happy is all about your mindset. If you focus more on all of the wonderful things in life that you do have, your energy will attract more good feelings and thoughts. Practicing gratitude is one of the best ways to work on your mindset and make you a happy mama.
With a positive mindset, you will notice your world start to change, and you will receive so much more to be grateful for.
Related Post: How To Practice Gratitude And Mindfulness With 5 Easy Actions
Stay Hydrated
Don’t underestimate the power of water. Of course, water has so many benefits, and it is important to always stay hydrated, but did you know it also affects your cognitive function?
Your brain needs to stay properly hydrated to function efficiently. Drinking enough water can help enhance mental clarity and overall cognitive performance.
Staying hydrated also helps maintain energy levels. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and lethargy, so if you want to be able to keep up with your little ones all day, drink plenty of water… and if you’re anything like me, a cup of coffee.
Eat Nutritious Meals
I know eating healthy can be a little difficult at times. Especially if you’ve had a long day and just want to have an easy night and order some pizza or pop in a frozen lasagna.
TIP: If you can follow the 80/20 rule, you are setting yourself up for success. I like to be realistic because it’s hard to say you won’t ever want some sweets or to stop at fast food out of convenience.
Properly fueling yourself with the nutrients your body needs will make a huge difference in your gut health, energy levels, mental health, and so much more. If you eat nutritious meals, you will also be creating good habits for your little ones.
Be Mindful
Being mindful is the act of slowing down and really taking in your surroundings. I know it can be so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget to just take some deep breaths, slow down, and activate all your senses.
Take a few minutes a day to stop what you are doing, take a few slow deep breaths, and notice the little things around you. Living in the moment is a huge mood booster.
When you’re living in the moment, you aren’t having anxiety about things that have happened in the past or worrying about things that will happen in the future. You are simply living and enjoying the current moment.
This is especially important when it comes to your children. Instead of thinking about all the things you need to do, it’s ok to take some time to just spend the present moment with your little one. They will appreciate it, and you can enjoy some much-needed one-on-one time with them.
Go Outside
Making a habit of going outside each and every day is an impactful and easy way to boost your mood. If you are a stay-at-home mom or a new mom, getting outside for some vitamin D and fresh air is very important. Staying cooped up inside can and will have a negative impact on your mood and can even lead to depression.
Something as simple as taking a 30-minute walk around your neighborhood with your little one can completely turn your mood from frumpy to happy mom. Being outside also provides you and your baby with cognitive stimulation. This is especially crucial for kids but also for yourself.
Find A Hobby
Being a mother is a huge part of your life. It’s easy to get caught up in ensuring everyone in your family is happy and healthy. This is why you need to do something for yourself too! Finding a hobby that you really enjoy is essential to being a happy mom.
Find something you enjoy doing on your own. Taking a little time for yourself is the best way to recharge. Doing something for yourself outside of motherhood is essential.
Yes, you are a mom, but you are also your own person with interests outside of motherhood. There are so many different kinds of hobbies. There’s sewing, baking, bike riding, horseback riding, working out, blogging, and the list goes on.
Find something you love doing and carve out time for yourself a few times a week.
Exercise
Looking for a boost of endorphins? Working out is the best way to do so! Exercise releases endorphins and boosts your mood. It can also lower any stress and anxiety.
Your physical health has a huge impact on your self-confidence and well-being, which is a key ingredient of a happy life. When you feel good about yourself, it radiates into all aspects of your life.
If it sounds difficult to get the motivation to exercise, you can start by easing into it. Start with 2 days a week, 30 minutes a day, and gradually add more days.
There are so many ways you can add exercise to your routine, just to name a few… you can join a mommy and me exercise group, you can go to the gym, go hiking, do yoga at home or in a studio, palates, home workout videos, or even go for a long walk or jog with your little one.
Whichever you choose, you will see an impact on your well-being just by getting in some movement.
Practice Self-Care
I am a huge advocate for adding self-care to your routine. Doing things for yourself is important. For a new mom, something as small as taking a hot shower and doing a face mask can go a long way.
Treating yourself to a mani-pedi, getting a massage, or even buying yourself a new outfit can boost your confidence and make you feel so good and refreshed.
Setting goals for yourself is another form of self-care. It is so gratifying to work toward a goal. Especially when you reach that goal! That is another level of happiness.
Im talking to all of you busy moms and working moms too. I know it can be so easy to forget to take care of yourself when you have so much going on around you. Which is why it’s even more important to take a little time for yourself.
Whatever self-care looks like to you, schedule some time each week to do a little something for yourself.
Related Post: A Complete Guide To Self-Care For New Moms
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
We all have a little ego in us, saying we can handle things on our own, but let me tell you… asking for help is not weak, nor does it mean you can’t do something on your own.
Asking for help can take a load off your back and help you de-stress. Less stress = a happy mom. There are people around you who are willing to help or answer questions you may have. Take advantage when someone, especially your spouse, asks if there is something they can do to help you.
They say it takes a village, and it really does. Motherhood can be overwhelming, so if you need some help or have questions you need answers to, then by all means, ask.
Go On Date Nights With Your Spouse
All this talk about motherhood, but let’s not forget your spouse either. Having some much-need one-on-one time with your spouse is important to your relationship, to you as an individual, and to your family.
Go on a date night. If you can do it once a week, that would be fantastic. Otherwise, once a month will have a big impact on your bond. It’s also a great way to unwind and enjoy some quiet time away from the kids.
Spend Quality Time With Your Family
Quality time is oh so important and also so enjoyable. Setting aside at least one day a week for family time is such a great way to hang out and enjoy each other plus, you will be creating so many memories for you and your little ones.
Family dinners are another great way to spend time with your family. After a long day of work, school, extracurricular kids activities, and errands, it is so nice to be able to sit down with your family and talk to each other. Making a habit out of family dinners is an important part of your day.
Let’s not leave out vacations… the best memories are made during family vacations. This is a time to unwind and reset everyone’s mood.
Hang Out With Friends
Call up your best friend or fellow moms for some adult time. Mom friends are especially great since you can bring the kids, and they can play while you hang with the ladies.
Most of my day is spent talking to my daughter, so it is especially nice to call up a friend and talk about other things besides bubbles or feeding her dollies.
Hanging with your close friends can also be helpful for your mood because they can give your some advice or outside perspective on different situations you are going through. Maybe they have already gone through certain stages with their kids and can give you tips that can make things easier for you too.
Don’t Compare Yourself or Your Kids To Others
Living in the age of social media has such an impact on our mindset, and a negative one at that.
Do you find yourself comparing yourself to other women you see on social media or other moms that make motherhood look so easy? Do you hear other moms talking about how happy their baby always is and how good of a sleeper they are? There are so many different instances that we compare ourselves or our children to others.
It is so toxic to play the comparing game. Let me tell you this… most of the stuff you see on the internet is fake. It’s not fair to wish you looked like someone else or wish your house was as esthetically pleasing as the lady’s on your newsfeed.
It’s also important to not compare your child’s milestones or personality to another child. All kids learn at their own pace, and all have their own personalities. That is what makes them unique and special.
You are an absolutely wonderful mother doing her best, and that is what matters the most. Don’t put unrealistic expectations on yourself or your child.
Final Thoughts
By creating daily habits and making a new routine for yourself to become a happy mom, you will feel the happiness growing inside of you. Healthy habits are the key to happiness and longevity. When you become a happy and healthy mom, you will be able to find excitement in waking up each morning to take on the day with your family.
Set yourself up for success by choosing a few habits that are most important to you. Once you have mastered those, you can add more habits to your new routine. Becoming the person and mother you have dreamed of being will create an overwhelming amount of happiness inside of you.
This Post Was All About the Daily Habits Of A Happy Mom
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Aubree Watson says
These are some great tips for habits that all moms should implement! I definitely need to get better at going to bed early. After my kids go to sleep I usually stay up on my phone or watching a dumb reality tv show lol. Then I wake up at the crack of dawn and am exhausted! I could definitely benefit from being more self disciplined and making sure I go to bed at a reasonable time. Thanks for the great post and reminders! 🙂
Haley Murphy says
I am so happy you found this post helpful! I admit, I am guilty of those things as well but implementing these tips helped me tremendously.
Valery says
While I am not a mom, I definitely need these tips too! I love my gratitude journal and feel like it helps so much! But my husband and I haven’t gone on a date in a while. Your post has inspired me to make it happen! Thanks for sharing such great thoughts.
Haley Murphy says
I am so glad you found this post useful even without being a mother. I absolutely agree, that many of these are things we should be doing with or without children.
Stacia T. says
As someone family planning, this is really helpful. Motherhood is a big change and I see a lot of moms that don’t do these things and are burnt out or unhappy. It can be scary anticipating the next chapter so I really love how you simplified actionable steps to take to stay happy and enjoy each day as a mom.
Haley Murphy says
I am so glad you found this post helpful. I absolutely agree with you, mom burn out is so real and I hope I can help others avoid it. I wish you a the best on your journey!
Debbie says
Fabulous tips on daily habits for moms. Although geared to keep a happy mom, these are solid ideas for everyone!
Haley Murphy says
I couldn’t agree with you more!
Nelly says
I am a mom as well, and I try to follow many of those. I am guilty of checking my phone first thing in the morning, as sometimes I have important updates from work. Thanks for sharing this useful post! We, as mothers, need reminders of what’s best for us.
Kirstie Hardwick says
Love these suggestions, thank you!
Haley Murphy says
I am glad you found them helpful!
Megan says
I love these tips! I am going to try to start a gratitude journal and no social media in the morning!
Haley Murphy says
Im glad you found this post helpful. Both of those ideas are so incredibly helpful for me, and I hope they will be for you as well!
Fransic verso says
Comparing to others always make life worse. These are great tips to follow.
Haley Murphy says
It really does. In todays world, it’s always good to remind ourselves that we are perfect as we are.