There are some weeks when my partner works such an intense schedule, that a lot of the parental responsibility falls on my shoulders. Now I'm not going to sit here and pretend that we don't have help. We have a nanny three times a week – someone we would not survive without. Yet, even with the extra help there are some days, I feel like the parental/workload + everything else is a major juggling act.

12 Tips on Solo Parenting

1. Don't Tell Yourself It's Going To Suck

This could really apply to anything in life! How many times have we went into a parental situation and started thinking negatively right off the bat? It rarely accomplishes anything and does more harm than good. I've started to really go into situations thinking (and actually saying to myself), "This is going to be great!"

2. A Flexible Schedule

One common thread is that a schedule of some sort is key. For some, it might be a bit more structured and for others, like myself, it's a little looser. One thing for sure, a schedule helps everyone know what to expect and helps minimize meltdowns.

3. Prepare The Night Before

While I'm not a Type-A over planner, I'll admit that when I plan and prep, it's a much smoother ride for all of us. Right now for the night before, I minimally prep the coffee machine, put together most of lunch and lay out clothes for the next day.

4. Expect Less

Someone mentioned that solo parenting doesn't have to be perfect. Just enjoy the crazy, the messiness and know that you're making special memories.

5. Lower the Bar

One mom mentioning serving PB&J's for dinner on a blanket and calling it a picnic. Absolutely love this idea!

6. Pick Your Battles

"When I stopped trying to control everything, I felt more calm.."

7. A Calm Voice is Always Needed

This one really resonated with me. There have been instances where I've really lost my cool. Taking a solid deep breath when I'm at my wits end has helped tremendously.

8. When I'm about to lose it, I breathe and count to three

It usually works. This simple technique has saved me many times.

9. Remember it's more my issue than theirs

My anxiety, my limitations. Kids are adaptable. Whenever I'm in a new situation, I'm always reminded of just how adaptable kids are.

10. CBD Helps

A few people mentioned CBD and I really have to agree. I recently started incorporating CBD into my life after I found my anxiety started to bubble and this really helps take the edge off.

11. Dance Parties

Telling Alexa to blast a favorite song and dancing kills so much energy and it's fun! We've had meltdown situations and whenever we dance it out, we end up having more laughs than tears.

12. Get over the shame of takeout dinner and screen time

Take the pressure off. You're doing great!