Something we love to live by at Mum’s PA is the ‘Aeroplane Analogy,’ putting your oxygen mask on first so you can then look after others to the best of your ability. If you can’t breathe, you can’t be there for anyone else!
The same goes for day to day life and understanding the importance of outsourcing areas you need support in; It’s impossible to be a good mother, father, friend, boss - you name it, if your needs aren’t met first.
Our director Emma puts it simply, wake up in the morning and ask yourself “what do I need first, then what does my child need, my clients need, my husband etc etc.” All areas you normally put ahead of yourself, but inevitably costs you later on. If you remember to support yourself first, then you’re on your A game for everyone else.
It’s easier said than done, as a team of mainly mothers - we understand the challenge in putting yourself before others! Here are some of our top tips to ensure you oxygen mask is well fitted:
Outsource where you can
One of the biggest tools you can lean into for reduced stress is outsourcing. Especially when it comes to decluttering & organisation + home re-location. Having a streamlined, tidy, functional home is one way to put yourself first and subconsciously live in a more grounded way. You don’t have to do it all, especially when it comes to big life events such as moving home.
Keep it simple
Create a routine & keep it simple. Small ways that you can consistently priorisitse each day that ensure your oxygen mask has been put on first. This could look like making yourself a morning cup of tea, going for a walk, an evening bath and so on. It’s unique to you and your emotional wellbeing - for some people a quick 15 minute declutter morning and afternoon help them feel more on top of things and regulated, for others perhaps it’s calling a friend - there’s no rules!
Lean on your community
We were never meant to do everything alone, especially when running a household and trying to take care of multiple people around you. Whether it’s outsourcing to professional teams which can take the stress away, leaning on friends, family etc - remember looking after yourself is you also looking after others.
Don’t sway & communicate
Life gets in the way and it’s hard to continue sticking to a routine which puts yourself first. We find that being religious about your intentions and creating essential barriers around what you do and don’t have capacity for during self care time really helps you stay on track. Next thing to do - communicate this with the people around you, so they know when you’re putting on that oxygen mask it’s your time and it’s so that you can in turn help them next.
If you’re someone who feels like your home rules you - you’re constantly chasing the goal of decluttered and organised spaces and it’s something which makes you feel like that oxygen mask has been flung off, especially during home relocations - we understand & that’s why we are here. We help you develop strategies and systems which work for the whole family & take the stress away long term. See how we can help you today: emma@mums-pa.com.au
