Yes, I can get out of the house with 2 kids.

I deal with anxiety. I deal with it daily. I know that I am not alone. So many of you have reached out to me and have shared similar experiences.
Being a mom has taken my anxiety to a new level. Whew baby!  As mamas, we are responsible for taking care of another human being. Some of us have more than one. This is no joke people! Craziness.
Last week, I took both of my kids to the pool by myself for the first time. Gasp! I know. This was HUGE for me. I am always thinking about all the “bad” things that could happen which is totally not cool. It often leads me to just stay home with the kids. It is easier. It is comfortable. We get into a routine. Before kids, I never would have thought taking two kids to the pool would be so scary… times have changed. 
I am always amazed when I see moms out and about totally relaxed with like 4 kids in their shopping cart. I am not one of those mamas. I am always thinking about “what could happen.” Ugh. I am a worrier. I am getting better though. I am becoming more courageous.
I want to be more courageous. I don’t want to worry so much. I want to enjoy my kids. I want to get out of the house and show them new things. I don’t want to be afraid and stay home all the time.
Here are my 5 tips to becoming a more courageous mama:
1. Go for it. What’s really the worst that could happen? Chances are you can handle more than you think you can. I bet you are a smart woman. I bet before you had kids you traveled Europe or drove across country or went to college. You are more courageous than you give yourself credit. Go for it. Take your 2 kids to the pool.
2. Plan ahead. On Sunday evenings I usually take a look at the calendar for the upcoming week. If we have outings planned I try to organize most things the night before. You know, lunch bags, diaper bag, pool toys… This way, I can just grab our bag and go instead of looking for sippy cups and diapers before we leave the house.
3. Meet up with other mamas. This way, if your kiddo decides to have a little fit in public, I am sure your mama friends will help you. I bet they have been there before and can totally relate. They won’t judge. The day I took my girls to the pool I met many other mamas with similar fears and anxiety. Mama, you are not alone. Let’s stick together.
4. Bring food. Always bring food. I always have an avocado in my purse. Or a Lara bar. Or both. You just never know when you or your kiddo will need a snack. Plus, if need be they can be a quick meal replacement. Better than fast food!
5. Tell yourself “I’ve got this.” Enjoy your time with your kids when you are out and about. Explore new things together. Instead of worrying about what could go “wrong,” focus on the good. Your kids think you are totally awesome. BE totally awesome.
Remember, chances are, you and your kids will do just fine and you will be building lots of fun memories.
I have found that motherhood is a process of getting over many hurdles. Juliana is 9-months-old now. She is sleeping much better these days but her darn teeth are driving her crazy! There is always something but none of those “somethings” are serious, or life threatening so all is well.
I have found that motherhood is a chance to give yourself a pat on the back. Somedays, you might not get a “thank you” or a “job well done” from those little people that you take care of. However, if you look back at all you have accomplished, motherhood is a chance to allow yourself to say, “You know what, I am doing a damn good job! I am proud of myself for taking care of my kids.”
Be courageous mama. I am proud of you.
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