How to be a good and effective mom?

I am a stay at home mom and being one doesn’t make me a good mom at all but I am trying my best to be one. But, what is really the qualification of a good mother? Does doing everything (as in everything) for your family and not taking care of yourself will make you a good mom?

For me, there are 3 aspects that I consider to be a good and effective mother

1. Have a quality time with the entire family

My son has just turned 4 so he is still dependent to us. But if ever he will be already old and have a social life outside the house I am still thinking of continuing to have a quality time together with him. As a mom, we are the ones who are responsible to hook up or gather every family member once in a while. This will make the family close together and catch up on what’s happening in each and everyone’s life.

2. Have a great time with your husband

My husband and I promised each other when we are still Boyfriend/Girlfriend that even though we got married and have kids or are already senior citizens we will still find time to go out and enjoy each others company (just the two of us). That is why every time we have extra’s for leisure we see to it that hubby and I will either watch our favorite movies or dine out outside. On the other hand, if we are on a tight budget, cuddling in bed is enough to have a time together.

3. Have a “me” time

You don’t have to always go to a salon or spa to enjoy your “me” time. Sometimes, a “me” time can be as simple as staying in your bed, reading your favorite book, enjoying every sip of your coffee or watching your fave movies or TV series at home, it doesn’t need to be splurging all your hard earned moolah. You shouldn’t have to be guilty after doing this because every person needs to take a break. We need to be refreshed, be healthy and happy so that we can be more productive and give more love to our family.  A “me” time can also be spent with your old friends or new found friends, don’t forget the individuality that you have before you got married and had kids so being out with friends once in a while is not bad.

me together with my offline friends

me together with some online friends (photo via: Thermos Philippines FB page)

How about you, what do you do to be a good and effective mother?