I don't know about you, but let me tell you a little about me. There are many days where the balancing act of Motherhood, Business and I like to call the third category "the other stuff" get a little overwhelming. I wont sugar coat it for you, it can be rough, challenging, maybe even draining. But how do we deal with that feeling that you are juggling so much, that one day you will drop the ball. 

Well the truth is, you will drop the ball. That is normal and it is OK. NO ONE is perfect!!! We all have our flaws and have to remind ourselves of this.

These school holidays proved that even when I drop the ball, I have the strength and the power to pick myself back up, apologise if needed, and move forward. 

Now comes the ever present mothers guilt. It follows us around and sits on our shoulders and we feel it each and everyday. It could be a range of topics:

• Why do I sometimes choose work over my kids?
• Why did I have to shout that day?
• Why do I feel like I truly suck at parenting some days?

Maybe what we need to think is rather:

• Wow look at me, I managed to work today, even though I had the kids at home!
• Perhaps I could of handled that a little differently, but I can't change it now, but I am sorry for shouting.
• I am trying my best and I am learning each and everyday.

If we would stop maybe being so hard on ourselves, and trying to be the perfect version of ourselves, and rather just focus on the moment that we are in, perhaps we could all live a more happy and fulfilled life.

There is no question in anyone's mind, that 2020 has been a very difficult year both personally and professionally. Here are a few tips on how we can we can maintain good mental health:

1. Sleep well! Don't skimp on this - 3 hours a night is not going to cut it.
2. Eat healthy- perhaps to much Cadbury and Smiths chips is not the best idea, but stick with fruit, veggies and all things healthy.
3. Get out of the house! Go for  a jog, a walk, a bike ride, or get back to the gym! Most have reopened- NO EXCUSES!
   
4. I know we like a vodka or two....buttt how will we feel in the morning? Avoid excess alcohol.
   
5. Sit in the sun!! May only be a few minutes, but worth all the beautiful Vitamin D.
   
6. Work may have slowed down and clients may have left or paused services, but you still can do plenty. Don't sit and wallow about what was. Work with what you have.
   
7. Call or see a friend or family! Don't stay isolated (unless by Government order of course).
   
8. Help someone in need. It may be a friend or family member, or even a stranger. You see someone drop their wallet, go run up to them and hand it back. Or you may have a friend who was in hospital? Make them a meal. It can increase your own self esteem and make you feel great!
   
9. Ask for help if you need it. Speak to a friend, family member or your GP.