Superwoman is a fictional character; however, the name is not a misnomer for most real-life women. Women have many labels: mother, wife, business associate, caregiver, and more. A revolving list of duties lies within each category. Oftentimes, pride and desire to be all and do all prevent women from acknowledging the need for help. For the sake of health and sanity, women need to be able to swallow their pride, open their mouths, and take advantage of many helpful resources.
It’s almost impossible to lead a busy lifestyle without any help, but when you try, it can be detrimental to your emotional and physical health. You can end up overrun, because without actually asking for help you get too little of it. When you are overly busy and frazzled it negatively alters your moods. This causes high levels of stress that leads to shocking effects on the body. That is one huge reason why it’s important that you find sources of help and take a full advantage of them.
1. Spouse
A spouse or partner is possibly the best source of help. Married ladies, please remember: while your husbands have many wonderful qualities, mind reading is not one of them. Instead of getting steamed at him for walking past a dirty toilet without picking up a brush or by the blinking dishwasher without unloading, simply ask him to do it. Waiting for him to do something because he wants to do it is a waste of mental energy. Most likely, your spouse doesn’t mind helping out; you just need to point them towards the task.
2. Parents
Yes, you are independent and confident, but hiding your weakness and troubles from your parents is a real crime. If you feel like you can’t cope with your problem, ask your mom or dad for help, they will definitely help you. Even if not, it’s not the end of the world.
More: 12 Minutes to a Happier You
3. Friends
Another valuable option for assistance is your circle of friends and relatives. This is a good opportunity to take the load off of each other. Try scheduling days to babysit each other’s children or creating car pool shifts for school and work. Mothers, if you need a day or just a few hours to yourself, call a family friend or a sibling who might be interested in spending a fun day out with your child.
4. Children
Children won’t help you accomplish your project or do shopping, however, assigning some household duties to them is a way to teach them to be helpful and get more tasks off your list. Whether it’s cleaning or pet sitting, your little ones might be good helpers.
5. Neighbors
In addition to your spouse, parents, friends and kids, your neighbors might help you too. Just one of the many benefits of making friends with neighbors is that you can rely on each other for help. If you can’t get home in time to water the lawn or feed the dog, or if you forget to take the trash to the curb, call a neighbor and ask if they wouldn’t mind to do this little task for you.
More: How to Stay Healthy and Happy When You’re Super Busy
6. Coworkers
You are not superhuman; you can’t do everything alone. Look for help among your coworkers. This way, you don’t show your weakness, you show your desire to work together. Today they might help you, but tomorrow you might help them. Collaboration is much better than burnout, isn’t it?
However you do it and to whomever you turn, asking for help is sometimes necessary. With occasional help, life is easier and more enjoyable than without it. You will feel less overwhelmed. Also, those who have helped you may find themselves in need from time to time, and therein is your chance to return the favor. Everyone needs help, and it all comes around.
