Every August, I begin the countdown. Time to gather the essentials for my kids: “Here’s some new underwear, kids! And don’t forget your socks!” I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement as I anticipate the arrival of September. The end of summer means the end of what I affectionately call “Mom Camp,” and a fresh start awaits.
As I envision the upcoming month, I think about all the things I plan to accomplish: organizing cabinets, finally clearing off my desk to locate my keyboard, creating photo books from countless images collected over the years, and getting fit again. I dream of cleaning out the summer clutter in my minivan, crafting quilts from my children’s old shirts, volunteering at their school, and maybe even signing up to be a substitute teacher or helping out at a local soup kitchen. I tell myself that I will be absolutely incredible!
Part of my motivation comes from that part of me, the 1993 version, fresh out of college, who would have scoffed at the idea of being a stay-at-home mom. I want to embody the ideal of a Super Mom, and September feels like the perfect launchpad.
In my mind, September means endless hours of productivity, during which I’ll read a book or perhaps even write one myself. However, the reality often diverges from my expectations. After tidying up the kitchen, squeezing in a jog, tackling loads of laundry, and dashing to the store for supplies, I inevitably find that it’s already time to pick up the kids. By the time October rolls around, I’m left feeling as though nothing has changed.
I’m left with a sense of disappointment. I had aspirations for September. I could have been a contender.
This month feels akin to New Year’s Day for parents, teachers, and children alike—a time for fresh starts and new goals. I often load this time with lofty expectations, like last year when my youngest started kindergarten. I resolved to run a marathon, pen a book, and declutter every closet in the house. At the time, it all seemed achievable.
But twelve months later, I realize that the three closets I did manage to organize are already chaotic again. I don’t have a marathon medal to show off, nor is there a book with my name on it lining my shelves. There’s hardly any trace of my accomplishments at all.
So, I’m here to remind you: Let. It. Go.
Don’t expect to accomplish everything all at once—books, marathons, volunteering, and personal fulfillment all at the same time is simply unrealistic. You’re still human, after all, and your responsibilities include laundry, dishes, homework checks, and school runs. Being a stay-at-home mom is a demanding full-time job in its own right.
Before you make your September resolutions, consider these more attainable goals:
- Take a deep breath. You deserve it.
- Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small, whether it’s laundry, dinner prep, or school transport—you are doing great!
- Take a moment to reconnect with yourself. (Your soul is probably hiding near the washing machine.)
- Remember that the version of you from 1993 had no idea what life would really entail.
- Practice patience. This phase of raising kids will pass quickly, and you’ll have plenty of time for other pursuits later.
- Accept that you are enough, just as you are.
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Summary
This article reflects on the pressures of motherhood, especially for stay-at-home moms, as September approaches. It encourages a realistic approach to setting resolutions by prioritizing self-care, acknowledging small achievements, and being patient with the journey of raising children.
Keyphrase: September resolutions for stay-at-home moms
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