"A man work from sun-to-sun, but a woman's work is never done."  

This old adage is especially true for mothers, which is why we need learn how to STOP adding to our own workload.

Your mother may have taught you when you were a a child that it is  impolite to say the word "“No." But you are not a child anymore!  ”

Mothers need to learn that saying "No"  as an adult is not rude. It is not a sign of being unreliable. Rather, it is a sign of someone who is in control of her life and her schedule. She knows what she is capable of accomplishing and she is aware of her other commitments.

Here are a few ways to gain back control of your life, simply by learning how to say, “"No"”:

1. Keep your calendar or planner up to date and use it. Schedule everything on one calendar, even exercise and family time, and keep it near the phone for easy reference when someone calls asking for a favor.

 2. If saying "No" is very difficult for you, get in the habit of saying "Let me check my schedule and get back to you." You can say this even if you calendar is right next you. It buys you time to consider the pros and cons of adding another commitment to your busy life.

3.  Do not feel obligated to offer a detailed explanation when saying "No." You can simply say something like,  "I have an appointment then". There is no need to explain what the appointment is (and yes, appointments with yourself DO count!)

4.  Be selective when choosing to volunteer your time.  Do not feel the need to serve on  every school committee (or soon you may feel the need to go postal!) . Instead, choose one or two activities or committees that interest you and schedule that time on your planner.

5. Set limits on your childrens after-school activities. Team activites are fun and help improve social skills, but that does not mean your children have  to be on a different team each season or take multiple lessons a week. Instead, teach your children how to choose activities that are most important to them and keep their focus on their studies. You'll be preparing them to say "no" properly as adults.

Saying, “"Yes",” to too many things is a habit that can be un-learned. Before committing to anything, spend some quiet time with yourself and decide what things you want to be a part of and how much time you have in your days. Sometimes we must compromise so we can successfully balance our family, work and volunteer lives.

For more ideas on busy moms can   simplify their lives and stay sane I recommend the terrific (and affordable) ebook called "Don't Fall Into The Supermom Trap" Check it out at http://www.solutionsforbusymoms.com/supermomtrap