Being a single mom is probably the hardest yet most rewarding job on the planet. But for many of us single moms, it’s not easy. Being left alone to raise your children is very stressful and sometimes extremely overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to survive as a single mom and how to really put yourself on the path to ending the struggle of doing this on your own.

1. To-do lists are a time and sanity saver for the single mom. Write down everything you need to do daily. Be sure to also include time to rest and recharge each day. Don’t make your list so big that you get overwhelmed.

2. Create a network of friends and family. Write down all the people you know in your life who would be willing or have offered to help you at one time or another. These are great people to call when you need a babysitter, or even someone to call who you can vent about the stress of being a single mom.

3. Check out all the resources available in your community. Don’t be afraid to apply for financial and/or government assistance if you really need it. Remember that you should never be ashamed of doing what is best for your children. They deserve a roof over their heads and food to eat every day. Apply for public assistance online, if you don’t have a computer, the library has great resources available for free.

4. If you are having difficulty working due to high childcare costs, consider work-from-home jobs where you can still care for your children and earn a living from the comfort of your home.

5. Plan how you want your future to be. If you can write on paper, keep that goal with you so you know you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

6. Take family trips and make your own little family traditions. Christmas or Thanksgiving may not be the same as it used to be, maybe you can’t afford high-cost toys or new gadgets now. That’s fine, your children have your love and that is the best gift of all. Create new traditions. Maybe cook at home this year or call the family and spend time with them too.

7. Create a budget A realistic budget of what you can afford based on your income and expenses will help keep you on track.