How will I ever be present when I worry about childcare and planning summer activities?
All summer camps are not created equal and for many parents this is the perfect time to
introduce diverse peer groups and empower self identity.
Welcome to this reading review of “Straight from Drop Off: Don’t let the Summer Break, Break You” Sis. I am Tameka Mitchell wife, mother of two(7 yo/ 3yo) colleague and motivator. Chief Mom Motivator that is.
Is it me or has the level of exhaustion and mental stress transitioned from one season to
another?
2024 is doing a number on many of us dealing with expensive childcare cost, our children’s
developmental goals, relationships, deliverables and mental exhaustion. I’ve spent the past
several months recovering from the variety of school breaks which was nice to use my vacation time to be home with family but anxiety-driven being the CEO (Chief Entertainment Officer) of my household.
Growing up as a military kid of three, I remember my mother telling us we better find something to do or go outside and play. Granted, she was infamous of creating arts and crafts as a child-care provider for other military families. Otherwise, we were left with our imagination.
She made it look so easy.
Now, as a parent, I feel like I’m always on the struggle bus � .
Do you ever feel this way?
It was important to me that I create new experiences and traditions for our children. But lately I want to do doughnuts in the daycare/ camp parking lot and yell “DUECES” for a mental break.
Recently, I have had to make tough decisions.
Do I choose to scale-back activities to cover daycare tuition, how will I manage my time for
work deadlines or the next break is coming up its CEO(Chief Entertainment Officer) time.
I often ask myself “Tameka how did we get here AGAIN because you are doing too much”
Okay, so I'm on this journey of exploring the latest version of Tameka and strengthening my
entrepreneurial muscles.
Its been powerful, invigorating, painful and purpose filled. I've made mistakes and learned a lot this year. I've invested in myself and made strides yet also setbacks that hit hard financially and spiritually.
At times feeling like I'm letting my family down yet focused in a way that I have never been
before. It's not my typical drive of corporate exceed-exceed performance reviews by
overextending myself or title promotions that once fueled me prior to motherhood. But knowing that maternal health equity and promoting children's literacy is my life's work. Each day I make a conscious effort to align passion, purpose, and profession.
Also, I'm a wife learning everyday to be more compassionate toward my husband through life’s lows and being there for loved ones struggling with their mental health.
I smile through this not because I'm niave or lack a sense of reality. I smile and stay optimistic
because there is so much more ahead of me than my current circumstances.
The hustle and bustle of drop-off impacts every phase of motherhood. I’ve shared my
experience with primary school/toddler-aged children, life lessons, and my focus toward being a more compassionate partner.
“Straight from Drop Off” impacts Mamas of teenage, young adult and adult children too.
Motherhood doesn’t end at high school graduation. It evolves into a new level of trust that you
did what is required for your children to thrive and flourish.
How can we rediscover new interests or recharge?
Does it have to take being on E and suffocating by the pressure of life to ask for help?
Let’s make a commitment to one another
� Stay healthy (mentally, spiritual, emotionally, physically, and sexually)
� Unpack experiences that are hindering growth and cut exhausting relationships
� Forgive the unforgiven. You don't have to carry the burden anymore
Tips to hold ourselves accountable
1. Start a Weekly Coffee/Smoothie Chat: Let's set up a weekly coffee chat where we can catch
up and talk about our personal goals. We can share what we're working on, swap book
recommendations, or even plan to take a class together.
2. Create a Goal-Setting Routine: How about we each set a specific goal for the month and
then check in with each other? We could use a shared calendar or a simple checklist to keep
track. Keeping it simple and clear will help us stay on track.
3. Celebrate Our Wins Together: Let's make a pact to celebrate our progress, no matter how
small. Maybe we could plan a little treat or a fun outing when one of us hits a milestone. It's a
great way to stay positive and encourage each other along the way.
We have to get our dance on when celebrating wins. Music is good for the soul. Here are my
recent top 5
1. “ On My Mama” Victoria Monet
2.”Let Me Clear My Throat”. DJ Kool
3. “Pretty Girl Rock” Keri Hilton
4. “Toast” Koffee
5. “Floor is Lava Song” Gracie’s Corner
In closing my lovelies and before my kids run in, you are doing a phenomenal job!
I’m extremely proud of the growth and self-reflection during our time together.
Post and share your progress at @Chief_Mom_Motivator
Continue to be the best version of yourself.
Now, go be DYNAMIC!
Chief Mom Motivator
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