The papers have started piling up. You know, those back to school papers of which class does what, the expectations for each class, forms to be filled out, newsletters, you name it. The pile has begun. Last year’s pile still remains (however tucked away in some drawer or closet). Come to think of it the previous year’s pile is still somewhere to be found.
Each year I have a plan to be organized. One year I bought a basket for the counter. My plan was to keep all papers there so I would know exactly where they were and keep on top of them regularly. The next was a divider with three sections (one for each kid). They both lasted for about two weeks.
This time of year we are blasted with tips and tricks on starting the school year off right, being organized, making the perfect lunches, and all that ‘perfect world’ stuff. It all sounds fine and dandy – until you actually do it – and try to keep up with it.
You have to wonder if those houses where everything seems so in place and organized – truly are. I will admit each September I make an attempt. Calendar all scheduled, kids at each practice on-time, never forgetting a permission slip, the balanced lunch, homework done early, dinner on the table every night, cell phone rules being followed to a T, and still work my full-time job.
Do these moms really have it all so together or are they just saying that?
There was a recent study put out about the so-called Supermom. It links Supermoms and depression. The theory is that these moms are trying so hard to do it all that in turn, they are disappointing themselves and becoming depressed.
So why is it that people feel the need to be Supermom? Okay, so I do make an attempt each year however, I am the first to admit my house is not always clean, we dig through cabinets some nights to find dinner, I have sent my kid’s to school with a bagel with butter for lunch and a bag of chips, and we have been late to more than a handful of practices each year.
I stopped trying to have the “June Cleaver” life a long time ago. For me it was probably about the time I went back to work full-time and had my third child. It just wasn’t possible to do it all and I am not going to pretend like it is.
For all those out there who do it all – more power to you!
What do you think? Are you able to keep up on it all?
{ 8 comments }
Don’t you hate how that first week of school, the parents get more homework than the kids? Forms to fill out, papers to read and sign, checks to write (so many checks!)…
I do have one folder for each kid…but I also have piles of papers on the counter!
I was forced to give up some of my perfectionism (probably won’t ever give it all up!) and stop trying to do it all when I became chronically ill. It was one good thing to come from something so difficult – learning to let go a bit. Still, the urge to do it all is there!
I think happiness lies in balance and moderation. Not as flashy as perfectionism and extremes but much more sustainable.
Sue
This is why I love and hate the new school year. Love it for the fresh start and promise of things to learn. Hate it because it’s back to the rat race. As much as I get “done” with the monotony of summer, the rat race becomes hard to keep up with pretty quickly.
Missy | The Literal Mom´s last [type] ..Do You Lie to Your Spouse? Here’s Why It’s OK – Sometimes
I think the “supermom” is a myth! If they appear perfect, then something is missing somewhere else. We are all optimistic in the beginning and forgetful by the end of the semester. I think it’s more important to be there for our kids, be interested in what they’re doing than to be organized.
Betsy at Zen Mama´s last [type] ..Life Is Fragile
Maybe (and it’s a big maybe) there are few Supermoms out there, but I personally think that it’s impossible when having a full time job! Yes, I can try to be on time and cook (even bake once a while), but I don’t cook every day and too many times the house is a mess. That’s life (for now)
Jo´s last [type] ..Growth in Fluorescent Grow Lights
Back to school is tomorrow for us! The only way I “keep it together” is to get things signed, sealed, and delivered back as soon as they come in the door. That means permission slips, health form, etc. is tackled right as it comes in, then promptly goes back to each child to turn in b/c my mommy brain will not work with it hanging around for days, waiting to be filled out, etc. That’s my trick! As for organization? Well, again, the faster it gets done and put back, the better for all of us!! LOL!
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I’m just entering the world of school, and I realize what you mean about all the paper! This may sound like a cliche… but I think I’m doing better (after years of sucking at it) at filtering out tasks based on priority. I’m not afraid to ignore something or throw it away. Things stack up, and that feels unsettling… but each morning I look at the list and ask, “What really needs to get done?” I sort through the inbox and ask, “What really warrants a response right now?”
I’ve found that some people get pissy when you don’t respond right away, and it’s starting to become comical to me. I used to jump through hoops to please people like that. It’s exhausting.
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No way! I’m constantly feeling buried by paperwork, school work, bills, laundry, etc. I give myself kudos for doing the dishes and making sure everyone has something (anything) to eat for dinner. I have to give myself little mental star stickers for doing the basics sometimes b/c honestly…no way I’ve got it all down pat. Hanging on by a thread my friend…and ready to just throw all that paper work out and start anew!
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oh motherhood is rewarding, but I would never say that it’s a piece of cake because it is NOT easy. It involves a lot of stress, difficult discussions and a heavy dose of guilt. i’m not a mother yet, but soon i will be but i’m ready for this journey.
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