As a mom-to-be, it’s important to not stress out over small things or hypothetical situations. And regardless of whether you planned on single motherhood, you’ll eventually question how you’ll be able to do it on your own — and that’s just fine. Questioning yourself is healthy as long as you don’t let it stop you from getting things handled.
Let the fact that one in five children live with a single mother comfort you in your times of doubt. Single mothers abound, and they’re doing a fine job despite the various societal and financial pressures they face each day. Take on these few tasks and let them comfort you the next time you start to worry about the future you’re making for your child
Save Now
The rising cost of living has impacted the nation and is a bit distressing when you look at the facts. Instead of doing that, look forward and focus on your own finances. Set aside some time to develop a solid budget and a financial plan.
A financial plan is your path to providing for your family and meeting any other goal you choose to set, such as creating a college fund for your child to take advantage of in the future. Another goal could be something like buying a house to raise your kid in. No matter what
your goals may be, make sure you write them down so you’ll have an idea of what it will require.
From here, do some calculations and create a stricter budget for yourself. The more you save now, the better, as children cost quite a bit to feed, clothe, and shelter. It might seem impossible to live on a small amount of money and buy diapers, formula, your own food, and pay rent while saving for a baby’s college fund, but it’s possible.
A single mother of three has made her $44,000 salary provide a wonderful life for her and her three children, according to The Penny Hoarder. So, take advantage of coupons and discounts when you can. Even if you’re still a way out from needing diapers, buy them when they go on sale; you’ll be thankful for the stockpile later on. Collect what you can now, and protect it.
Get Coverage
Protect your child’s future, yourself, and your property to ensure you’re covered in the event that anything happens. Planning ahead will help prevent you from experiencing chaos, and it’ll lessen the anxiety that comes from “what-ifs.”
While doing your budgeting, account for insurance on everything, including yourself. Personal
injury protection (PIP) is coverage available with most auto insurance policy options. You need this coverage because it can cover medical costs, lost wages, and more in the event of an accident. So, check with your provider to make sure PIP coverage includes coverage for drivers on the policy and passengers so your kids will be protected .
Shop around for life insurance policies as well to further protect your survivors, and prepare a will. This will should clearly lay out how you want your assets dispersed. Whether your child’s arrived already or not, you should begin the process of choosing a guardian for your child. This should help you relax when you start thinking about the future. Get ahead of any possible stress by handling the important stuff now, and seek help from friends, family and a community.
Build a Community
It truly takes a village to raise a child. Even if you’re a single mother, you have to rely on a sitter or childcare at some point. Instead of waiting till the last minute to make connections, start today. Family is a wonderful source of support, but that doesn’t mean a family member will always be available to listen or take the kids for an hour. Get involved with your neighborhood community — at church and at work — to begin building connections.
Find a community online or in-person that you can chat with and lean on when you feel overwhelmed. You’re going to be a great mother, but you’re going to want some help. Help yourself by following these tips, sooner rather than later.
Alexis Hall
alex@singleparent.info
singleparent.info
