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Building Your Village: Support and Strength for Single Parents
Explore the challenges of single parenting and discover ways to build a supportive community for yourself and others.
Dearest MindFull Readers,
What is the biggest challenge for you when it comes to single parenting?
Today, I want to share a bit about my journey as a single parent and the challenges that came with it. If you're navigating the world of single parenting, know that you're not alone.
2019 - Photoshoot
For me, the biggest challenge was time. I vividly remember the days when every moment was a race against the clock, trying to juggle routine tasks and still find time for myself. Looking back, I’m grateful for those experiences because they taught me efficiency and resourcefulness. I thought I was already resilient and mentally strong, but single parenting took it to another level.
Here’s a glimpse of what my weekdays looked like with my two daughters:
6:45am - Wake up and get ready
7:00am - Wake the kids and get them ready
7:30 am - School run
8:30 am - Start work
5:00 pm - End work and pick up the kids
6:00 pm - Another school run
6:15 pm - Prepare or buy dinner
6:45 pm - Dinner time
7:15 pm - Shower time
7:45 pm - Bedtime routine
9:00 pm - House chores
11:00 pm - End of the day
At 11 pm, I often found myself revenge scrolling through social media, trying to carve out a bit of ‘me time’ after a long day. Weekends were no less hectic, filled with gymnastics and other activities for my girls. I also juggled several side hustles to ensure I could provide for my daughters. Sometimes, they’d accompany me on late-night work sessions.
2018 - My daughters & I are on a work trip in Batam.
I won’t lie – it was exhausting and often overwhelming. I became an expert at making it look easy, but inside, I was struggling. Many nights ended in tears, as I grappled with how to create the best life for my girls and myself. Despite the challenges, I was determined to handle my divorce in a healthier way than my parents did.
Are you a single parent or do you know a friend who is in a similar situation? Here’s a little nugget to share: it takes a village not only to raise a child but also to support a parent. Our society needs this village to protect our mental health and share the burden, yet it’s often missing. For those without a support system, even small gestures can make a big difference.
Here’s what you can do for single parents:
Drop by their home to check in on them
Send a random meal or drink delivery to brighten their day
Offer to take their children for a day
Be a listening ear when they need one
Invite them out, even if they often have to decline
And for the single parents out there:
Embrace the mindset of accepting help and support
Remember, nobody should carry their burdens alone
It’s okay to not be okay
Open your heart to a trusted person and talk about your feelings
If any of this resonates with you and you need someone to talk to, I’m here for you. Let’s connect through a Healing & Growth Call whenever you’re ready.
In the meantime, I’m sending you strength and hope. Bit by bit, we can reach our full potential.
2020 - Enjoying a rare late night out together to watch fireworks.
If you'd like to set up a free, 30-minute, no obligation, Healing & Growth Call with me to explore whether I am the right Reparenting Life Coach for you please book a slot at this link https://calendly.com/michelle-lim-tmp/healing-and-growth-call
With warmth and mindfulness,
Michelle Lim | Founder of The MindFull Parent | Reparenting Life Coach
Michelle Lim | Mother of 3 | Multi-Coach | Founder | Author | Preschool Educator | Babywearing Specialist | Breastfeeding Mentor
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You can also follow Michelle’s story about her chaotic yet loving parenting journey and other adventures on her personal Instagram.
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