Jealousy Solution: Flip. That. Script.

In the therapy world, it's advised not to compare yourself to others. This is MUCH easier said than done!

I find that my brain, like so many others, tends to focus on negative comparisons. "She's a better mom than me because she cooks healthier food" or "He's more successful than me because he makes more money". These comparisons are lies, and usually end up lowering my self-esteem and stealing my joy.

So what's the solution?

Don't worry y'all, I've got one! Next time you find yourself on the losing side of a comparison, try to "flip the script" and make it a "Creative Comparison"...

So if I'm jealous of my sister in law's DIY Halloween costumes and awesome sewing skills (true story) I'm going to FLIP. THAT. SCRIPT. and instead find 3 positive things about our Halloween.
1) The kids were adorable and had fun
2) Costumes were bought at a consignment sale so they didn't kill the budget (more on that soon!)
3)  After the indoor trunk or treat event, Annabelle had a blast putting sticker faces on sticker pumpkins. Thanks to her Aunt for sending those!

By switching the negative thoughts for positive ones, you can stop that liar brain of yours from making you feel like a poop emoji and realize that no one is perfect, and the grass is always greener where you water it. For more on how to "flip the script" check out the Facebook page "Ban the Shame" which is operated by my dear friend J.

 So friends, when you catch yourself comparing, "water your own grass" and stock up on happy memories. You'll need them for your patronus.

~Peace, love, and popcorn,
Mama Gali

Gratitude

Last year a friend of mine (Deb from authenticdeb.com) inspired me to purchase a lovely journal and write in it daily for a month, attracting good things into my life with each sentence I wrote.

After the 30 days, okay okay during the 30 days, I stopped writing daily. Every now and then I pick up the journal with its pen clipped to the spiral binding, turn to the next page, and write a gratitude list.

I have to keep a pen with the journal because honestly, I'd lose my mind if it wasn't attached (but mental health is another post for another time... stay tuned)


So friends... What are you thankful for today?

Happy Friday!

T.G.I.F. 

My coworkers all get really excited about Fridays because it's almost the weekend. (Well, except the ones who work Saturdays... tell them Happy Friday at your own risk).

Weekends are about hobbies, naps, fun events and relaxation... or so I used to think in the B.K. era... Before Kids.

For working moms of littles, the weekend brings a whole other type of stress. The weekend is a time when you're not required to be at work, and "should" be choosing from a mountain of to do list items that get put off during the work week. (Don't get me started on shoulds).

Example: putting away clean laundry, sorting the kids closets when they outgrew a size, sweeping/mopping, sleeping while the kids are sleeping (HA! More on that later), playing with the kids, meal prepping healthy food, grocery shopping, taking the kids to the library/zoo/park/fill in the blank, visiting family, self care.

Did you notice how my brain naturally ordered that list? Chores first because the mom-guilt is strong, then kids because they grow so fast, self care last (also more on that later), and poor hubby didn't even make the list. I recognize that this is a problem. I'm working on it.

So since I'm posting this "Happy Friday" vent post on Saturday (let's be real doing anything on time with a full time job, toddler, and infant is near-impossible), I'll close by simply saying enjoy the weekend, however you choose to spend it.

☮💖🙊

Peace, love, and pickles
~ Mama Gali