Q&A – How to fill my (way empty) cup?

I let myself get way empty. Below empty if that is possible. My husband is at the same place. How can I fill my cup up? It is just so empty. Little fill ups get drained faster then I fill. What worries me/upsets me the most is when I get drained I get cranky/mean and controlling. I start to yell and I don’t like that. I know I need to fill up but how can I be nicer when I’m drained? How can I stop being so controlling and harsh?

Oh mama. I can really hear that you are in a very very very depleted state. I’m so sorry. It’s physically painful to be so low and then to have little people around you doing their little people things. Ugghhh.

Is there anything that you can take out of the schedule, just this week? Not forever, just until you get your footing?

If not, here are some suggestions:

Do an hourly pillow scream – Grab a pillow every hour and scream as loud as you can.
Have dance parties – put on music and move your body is really silly and almost aggressive ways. Get the yucks out of you.
Go to the gym – If it is helpful to go to the gym, put the kids in care and just get a break.
Get a sitter – Is there ANYONE who can come for a few hours over the next week to give you a break? Even if you just go to a coffee shop or the library and knit I know you would appreciate the time.

 

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Self-parenting — Tell yourself that you are stressed. You are having a hard time. It’s not who you are all the time, it’s just a rough phase. You will get through it.
Simplify any events – If they are stressing you, let them go. Keep it simple and just trust that it will be plenty.
Ask a friend over – Perhaps having another adult with you during the day, and some friends for the kids to play with, would be a good thing. You need support and companionship.
Let go! – Let them watch TV if it gives you a break. Let them pick up the doll stuff if she wants to, let them make a crazy mess if it gets you a moment to just scream into the pillow.
Try out my free Holiday Challenge for this month to help you set an intention and celebrate the goodness in your life.

You are going to get through this. Things won’t always feel this yucky. I promise.

Get some rest and be kind to yourself. The storm will pass.

If you have a great suggestion of how you’ve filled up your cup, please post it below! I’d love to hear your ideas.

Thanks,

Carrie