There's nobody stronger then a single parent!

You're a single mom or dad now, doing everything on your own. It's a scary thought, intimidating at times but remember all your kids need is the love of their parents. Recently I had someone ask me how I handle being a single mom and I thought of the little things I do to thrive.

Now that you're divorced a shift has occurred, you're a one person show, everything is on you. As harsh as that sounds the weight of the world is on your shoulders, how do you find the time to juggle everything? Here are a few tips to make life easier and most importantly not to loose your sanity.

Finding a work schedule that best fits your life schedule. If you're working the traditional 9-5 talk to your boss. We live in an era that certain careers will allow you to work remotely. Talk to your supervisor, let them know what's going on. Your boss doesn't want to lose you, in most cases they will work with you. Just remember if you are given the chance to work remotely don't take it for granted. Be grateful and most importantly go above and beyond what's expected of you.

You can't control the uncontrollable, only focus on yourself, how you react and what you can do. You can't force another parent to take their parenting time, showing up to events or delivering on what they've promised. These issues are the other parents, what you need to focus on is what you're doing. What matters is that you are true to your word and a constant positive reinforcement in your child's life. Most importantly never talk negatively about your ex, no matter what's happening.

As a single parent take the time to breath. There are time when everything seems overwhelming, breath, literally take a step back so your children don't see you breaking down or worse start screaming. It's not healthy for the children to witness their parent in a state of a melt down. Take a moment, sit down and laugh at how ridiculously crazy the moment is, that laughter will release your stress and you'll be able to gain clearer perspective on things.

Your daily life is not a competition with other parents or yourself. If the house is a disaster that's ok, as long as the kids are fed, clothed, happy, that's all that matters. There will be days when you can't get to the dishes, laundry, mail, pet groomers, grocery and whatever else that's on your to do list. That's ok, don't punish yourself, be kind with yourself you're doing what you do best, that's raising a healthy and happy, child.

As parents we get caught up with life, work, our kids schedules and everyday activities. However don't forget to schedule "Me" time. Take at least an hour or two a week that's just about you. You don't have to hire a sitter, you can swap with a fellow parent that you trust. You have to remember that married couples have their date nights or at least times where they hand the kids off to each other. Allow that for yourself, find a friend, sitter, family member and take time for yourself, you matter.

Be proud of all your accomplishments, meaning if you're thinking you need to be a better parent it means you already are a great parent. When your child hits their milestones, says thank you and please, plays nicely, listens to you and much more, be proud because that's a reflection of who you are and what've you've instilled in your child.

Last but not least my saving grace is I pack for everything to avoid the small meltdowns that might occur. Have a backpack that's always in your car with incidentals, our bag has the extra sippy cup, beach toys, snacks, pants, diapers, wipes, book, cars and towel. This is always in the car, it's not my diaper bag, this bag is my, "in case we go somewhere and need something right now" bag to keep both of our sanity in check.

Remember you're doing what's right for you and your child not what society expects of you. Don't worry about the Pinterest moms making homemade macaroni rainbow confetti tables with matching chairs, your only concern should be what your kids need at this very moment. It's most likely a hug, kiss and laughter at this very moment.