Mother’s Day Reflections: Embracing the Chaos and Joy of Motherhood with ADHD
Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers, caregivers, guardians, foster mothers, adoptive mothers, grandmothers, and teachers who look after hundreds of children as their own each year.
With Mother's Day today, I sit here pondering the beautiful chaos that comprises my life. Being a mother with ADHD is a life of one-of-a-kind challenges and surprises of delight.
I homeschool my children, work the night shift as a postpartum doula, and operate both an online and bringing our reselling business back to life after my husband’s detrimental accident last year.
It's a life that calls for flexibility, determination, and a sense of humor.
The Dance of Homeschooling with ADHD
Homeschooling with ADHD is like playing an orchestra where each instrument has its own mind. Some days it's beautiful; other days it's a distraction symphony. I've learned that rules are necessary, but so is flexibility. We have a routine, but it's more of a plan than a schedule. If a lesson isn't going well, we change gears. If the sun is shining too brightly to be ignored, we go outside and learn.
Visuals are my favorite things. Bulletin boards, colored charts, and checklists remind us to stay on track. I also use alarms and reminders to help us make it through topic transitions. These are not just for my children—they're for me as well.
Night Shifts and the Art of Adaptation
Working at night as a postpartum doula is another aspect of my already complicated existence. Helping new mothers navigate their most vulnerable moments is immeasurably fulfilling, yet it means my sleep cycle is irregular. I sleep when possible and survive on caffeine and sheer willpower.
This nightlife style requires organization. I precook meals in advance, set study materials out in advance, and talk frankly to my family members about our unique timetable. We're in it together, and I appreciate that they accommodate my schedule.
Building and Rebuilding: The Entrepreneurial Spirit
It's both exciting and exhausting to have an online business and revive my reselling business. ADHD gives rise to a torrent of ideas and the urge for creativity but renders it challenging to concentrate and stay organized.
I've learned to utilize a hyperfocus period for productive time and forgive myself during distraction periods. I organize projects through task management tools to remain on top of tasks and create realistic goals so that I do not end up being burned out. Small successes remind me to remain encouraged and also understand the progress achieved.
The Power of Nature and Daily Grounding
Amidst the turmoil, nature is where I get my sanity. Every day, I spend a minute to step outside, get the grass between my toes, and inhale deeply. It is this little act that grounds me, allowing me to get a moment of peace and concentration. It's a reminder every day that, despite the chaos, there is beauty and peace to be found.
These little doses of the great outdoors aren't just a corrective thing—necessities. They get me back to me and facilitate the emotional grounding required to care for my loved ones and pursue my vocation.
Embracing the Journey with Love and Laughter
Motherhood with ADHD is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unshakeable love. It's learning to love the imperfections, finding beauty in small moments, and laughing through the chaos. I've learned to be compassionate with myself, to seek help when needed, and to honor the unique gifts that ADHD brings to my life.
This Mother's Day, I honor all mothers on their individual paths. Your creativity, resilience, and love are the threads that sewn together make up the beautiful tapestry of your family's story.
🌸 Celebrate Mother's Day with Empowering Resources 🌸
In honor of Mother's Day, I'm excited to offer two resources designed to support and empower mothers like you:
Brain Bloom Bootcamp: A comprehensive program tailored for mothers managing ADHD, homeschooling, and entrepreneurial pursuits. Join now and receive a special 50% discount during our Mother's Day presale! (Send “Bloom” to chatterbrainmommy@gmail.com)
eBook – Focus, Energize, and Thrive: Discover practical strategies to enhance focus, boost energy, and thrive in your multifaceted life. Available now on Amazon: Focus, Energize, and Thrive
Step into these tools to feed your well-being and keep on your journey with confidence and joy.
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