5 Coping Strategies to Steer Single Moms Away from- “I Quit!”

5 Coping Strategies to Steer Single Moms Away from- “I Quit!”

Have you ever asked yourself “Why am I on this roller coaster ride? How do I get off?” What can you do to silence the nagging voice that keeps whispering in your ear “just quit”? Despite having faith and juggling life, as a single mom, there will be times that feel like everything is suffocating you. This does not indicate weakness. This is life—the life of a single parent. While I have no silver bullet that will help you defeat trying times, I do have a set of invaluable coping strategies that will empower you on your journey.

These are the 5 coping strategies:

  1. Crying-Purge set some things free

As much as crying yourself to sleep at night will bring no positive result or qualified answers to the problem that you are facing in the moment, it is still effective. Crying is a purging process that ultimately relieves some of the heaviness you carry daily.

  1. Faith- You have to have something you believe in and that fills you up

Having faith to know and believe that no matter what is happening in your life there is something greater than you and will never fail you is critical. Believe in the power of the universe to hold you up, show you the way, and open up closed doors when you have met the end of your own strength.

  1. Quiet Time- Rest your mind, Reclaim your power and Rejuvenate your spirit

As a single mother, a lot is asked of you. You give until you have nothing left in you. Take the appropriate time to sort things out and to spend some time alone relaxing your mind.

  1. Self-Improvement-Feed yourself positivity. Feed Your Mind

It is critical that you as a single mother do not stop growing and becoming better. It keeps your mind alert and continues to open up the door to opportunities to offer more to your children. And let’s be honest, it is good to lead by example.

  1. Devotion/Meditation- Tap into your inner core

My favorite scripture is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” from Philippians 4:6. Whether it is to run over, step over, climb over, roll over, or even crawl over the mountains before you, it has to be done; quitting is never the only option. Single mother’s you must pull out your mantra/verse and recite it with unwavering belief to produce the inner strength and power to make it a little longer.

These strategies are a starting point for overcoming the “I quit” syndrome. You have no barriers or boundaries except the ones you create. Single mother’s, you will never be faultless or handle every situation the right way, but you can give your best. You are more than you think you are and can go much further than you know. Be confident and be bold. You must have faith to know that you are chosen, equipped, and ready to change the face of the next generation. You have to release “I quit” in order to receive “I can”.

 About the Author

Grayce Bernard is the founder of IMPAC, Inc. and the author of the book: Raising Giants-Repurposing the Life of the Single Mother. She helps women break the cycle of generational poverty to build wealth by creating a life plan and step into a bigger vision of herself.  C. Grayce serves as a voice and advocate for the voiceless. She specifically helps single mothers reframe their stories of shame into stories of empowerment. C. Grayce Bernard is a coach, speaker, trainer and transformational leader. Book C. Grayce Bernard for your upcoming event at443.364.8789 or email: cgb@cgraycebernard.com.  Connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram

What to Buy at the Dollar Store (& What to Avoid)

What to Buy at the Dollar Store (& What to Avoid)

March 22, 2016 by Trae Bodge

If you’re like me, you enter your neighborhood dollar store intending to quickly grab one or two things. Instead, you end up slowly roaming the aisles for an hour, checking out absolutely everything. After all, you don’t want to miss an amazing $1 deal!

Here are a few things to keep in mind for your next trip:

  • Not everything at the dollar store is actually $1, so check prices.
  • Sometimes you get what you pay for — low price can equal low quality.
  • Dollar stores often receive odd lots or overstocks. Keep that in mind before purchasing — check for quality, damages and expiration dates (when applicable).

There are some items that can be great finds at dollar stores, and other kinds of purchases that are best left to other retailers.

WHAT TO BUY

Plant supplies, like clay pots, glass marbles, etc.
These are usually a great bargain at a dollar store versus home improvement stores. I would, however, avoid gardening tools, as the quality probably isn’t there.

Packing tape
I always make a point of picking up a roll or two at the dollar store. The rolls can be a bit shorter than at the office supply store, but for $1 vs. at least three times that, it’s a good deal.

Decorative gift bags
You can usually get plain gift bags pretty cheaply at stores like Target and Kmart, especially if you buy a package of multiples, but those shiny bags festooned with pictures of balloons or holiday ornaments? Those can go for $3 and up versus $1 at the dollar store.

Hair accessories, like coated elastics and hair combs
These are $1 a bunch at the dollar store and are at least $2.50 at the drugstore. The quality of the elastics can be a bit questionable at the dollar store, though, so give them a good tug before buying. 

Toothbrushes and toothpaste
If you find brand names at the dollar store for $1, grab them. Be sure to check the expiration date on the toothpaste, though.

Beach reading and coloring books
You probably won’t find The New York Times best sellers at the dollar store, but a good trashy novel? Yes. Coloring or activity books are also a good buy at the dollar store, but I would skip those that come with markers or crayons, which may be dried out or of poor quality. 

Foam core
School project? If you can find foam core for $1 or even $2 at the dollar store, grab it. I’ve seen it priced between $3 and $12 elsewhere. 

Mylar balloons
If your local dollar store sells and inflates balloons for $1, this is a great deal. The balloon or floral store will charge more.

Cotton balls/pads
If they are 100% cotton and $1, get them. Only get cotton swabs at the dollar store if they are brand name.

WHAT TO AVOID

Perishable & packaged foods and candy
Freshness and quality can be questionable, so I would proceed with caution. Check expiration dates and ingredients and inspect for damage before purchasing. 

Power strips, USBs, chargers and earbuds
Avoid buying anything that you plug into your beloved smart devices at the dollar store. The quality is probably not up to snuff, so don’t take the risk. 

Plastic food containers
Especially if you are in the habit of microwaving food in plastic containers or putting them in the dishwasher (both of which I advise against), do not buy plastic containers at the dollar store. The quality may be substandard. 

Sunscreen
Only buy sunscreen if the expiration date is a couple years away (allowing for time it may have already sat on the shelf), as SPF tends to degrade over time. Also check for a seal. If there isn’t an expiration date or seal, skip it. 

Detergents and cleaning products
Like sunscreen, the efficacy of cleaning products can degrade over time. Best to skip unless there’s an expiration date that is a couple of years away. 

Makeup, toiletries and medicines
I’d pretty much skip this category. It’s rare to find name-brand products anyway, and if you do find name brands, they could be pretty old.

Toys and games
These are usually made very cheaply. Your child will delighted for a minute until the toy falls apart. Rubber and plastic balls are good, though.

If saving money is important to you, don’t forget that you can save on everything from car loans to credit card interest rates if you have a good credit score. You can monitor your financial goals like building credit for free on Credit.com.

More from Credit.com

This article originally appeared on Credit.com.

[Video] Cheap Kid’s Craft – No Sew DIY Tote Bag

[Video] Cheap Kid’s Craft – No Sew DIY Tote Bag

I saw this diy no sew Tote Bag craft video on Facebook and had to share with you. It’s so easy for you to do with the kids. Just get an old t-shirt and scissors. No sewing needed. You can make several to carry or for storage. Just use your imagination! This would also make a great side hustle for you or the kids 😉