My guest blogger today is Daisy Sutherland. I met Daisy at the recent SheStreams conference and was impressed with her energy and smarts. She certainly knows what it's like to be Super Mom. She is a doctor, author, speaker, wife and mom to five children. She also is the founder/CEO of Dr. Mommy Online and Dr. Mommy andFriends. Daisy says her mission is to motivate busy women to live happier, and healthier lifestyles by simply letting go of guilt. Watch for her new book - 'Letting Go of Super Mom' coming out on August 7. For more tips visit: http://www.drmommyonline.com
Here's a brief glimpse into Daisy's take on Letting Go of Supermom:
The art of saying no is extremely essential to learning how to find balance in your life. Although it may seem easier said than done, it is truly possible. With a bit a practice and some self assurance and actually the ability to truly let go you will find saying the simple word no will be just that—simple.
All moms are seeking some sort of balance, but some are looking in all the wrong places.
What I would like to propose is that we swap the ratio: the proportion of our yeses to our nos could be easily switched to reflect the time you are comfortably able to spend doing the things that benefit yourself and your family, versus the time you spend on others.
This is not selfishness; this is wisdom. "No" is your new "yes".
Instead of saying an outright no, try this: "I can't say yes to your request." It gets people off guard because they might be expecting an excuse. But instead just say that one line.
Or, you may want to say, "I don't have time right now, but let me recommend someone else."
Saying no more often leaves you more time for yourself. Consider using that time to treat yourself by meeting a friend for coffee, joining a book or craft club or doing something you've always dreamed of like skydiving or taking dance classes.
The whole purpose of Letting Go of SuperMom is to help women realize they don't have to be everything to everyone. When you let go and let others pitch in, you take stress off your shoulders. That's when you live a happier and more fulfilled life.
