Flexibility is key to success for single moms in college
October 3, 2012
The rigors of being in college, taking care of a family and working a job can be overwhelming. The hours are long, the problems are endless and there never seem to be enough hours in the day to take care of everything. Nevertheless, persevering over difficulty is one of the many traits single mothers must possess to be successful in the first place, and adding the extra incentive of a college degree can help many get through the hardest of times.
For those with single mother scholarships who are still having a hard time seeing beyond current hardships, the most important thing to remember is to stay flexible. Having a rigid schedule is setting yourself up for failure, as there is no way to anticipate the future, especially with small kids in the house. Every little issue becomes an emergency, and if you are already feeling strung out, it is easy to get defeated.
Relax a littleIt may seem counterintuitive, but the best thing you can do as a single parent is take a deep breath and find time to just be at peace. No work, no chores, no kids and no place to be are the best things you can give yourself if you have been getting very stressed out recently. Taking this time can help you recharge and feel refreshed enough to continue with the daily rigors of life, no matter what comes your way.
Relaxation is not only health for you, it's good for your kids. As any caregiver knows, taking care of someone who is regularly in distress can be emotionally trying, and while children are not taking care of mom, her stress can rub off on them and have negative side effects.
Take it as it comesScheduling a time to do homework, take care of chores or help the kids with their assignments can be helpful, but clinging too tightly to these calendars can easily be a recipe for disaster. If a time period becomes unavailable due to circumstances outside your control, adjust your time to fit the current conditions. If you have to leave work early to take care of a sick child, use the time at home to study and get other housework done. That way, you will have more time later when those tasks should have been completed to use as you wish.
