Balancing Acts: How I Thrive as a Sober Mom, Full-Time Worker, and Coaching Student with 3 Sporty Kids

Being a mom is no easy task, especially when you have three children deeply involved in sports, a full-time job, and the personal goal of pursuing coaching certification. Add sobriety to the mix, and you have a complex juggling act. Yet, I've found my rhythm and am learning every day how to manage these responsibilities without sacrificing my well-being or my family’s happiness.

Embracing Sobriety

Becoming a sober mom has transformed my life in ways I never imagined. Initially, my focus was simply on being present for my children. Sobriety has given me the clarity to fully engage in our family's whirlwind of activities.

When I look back, I realize that my sober journey began with small steps—choosing to attend my children's games and practices fully aware instead of distracted. This clarity helps me appreciate every moment, turning mundane times into precious memories. I am now more connected; for instance, during soccer practice, I notice the small smiles on my kids’ faces when they score, which I might have missed before.

The Daily Juggle of Schedules

With three kids involved in sports, our family calendar can rival the most complex corporate schedule. From soccer practice to basketball games and swimming lessons, I’ve learned the art of scheduling.

Each Sunday, I dedicate an hour to planning our week. I use a color-coded planner for each child’s activities, which helps avoid confusion. For example, last week, this system helped us juggle three games and five practices while also integrating a school project deadline. By discussing commitments together, my kids are learning valuable lessons in time management and teamwork.

Finding Time for Exercise

Self-care is crucial, and I carve out time for fitness even amidst chaos. I’ve realized that exercise benefits my body and is vital for maintaining my mental health and sobriety.

Early morning workouts have become my escape. I wake up at 5:30 AM and hit the pavement for a 30-minute jog. This routine has invigorated my mornings and by 7 AM, I feel accomplished before my kids rise. Additionally, during their practices, I optimize my time by running around the fields or doing quick workout videos on my phone, which has been an effective way to incorporate fitness into my day.

Mastering Dinner Preparation

Dinner can often be the most stressful part of the day. After long work hours, the question "What's for dinner?" can feel overwhelming. I've adopted a meal-prepping routine that significantly cuts down on cooking time while still providing healthy meals.

Every Saturday, I spend about three hours prepping meals for the week. I chop vegetables, marinate chicken, and cook rice, dividing everything into convenient containers. This weekly ritual keeps us on track nutritionally and transforms dinner time into a pleasant experience. My kids often join in on the fun, learning cooking skills and enjoying quality time together—a win-win!

Pursuing Coaching Certification

On top of my busy schedule, I decided to pursue a coaching certification. This lifelong dream allows me to channel my passion for sports into something meaningful for my children and their peers.

Choosing an online program has been game-changing, allowing me to fit studying into my schedule. I dedicate 10-15 hours each week to coursework. During my kids’ practices, I often read or watch instructional videos. Being part of online study groups keeps me motivated and connected with others on similar journeys. Like my friend Sarah, who is also trying to balance coaching studies and parenting—she shares valuable insights that help me stay on track.

Building a Support Network

None of this would be possible without a strong support network. My partner and I communicate openly about our schedules and support each other's personal time.

Additionally, I have formed connections with other sober moms who understand the unique challenges we face. For example, through our monthly meetups, we share tips for managing our calendars and motivate one another through tough times. This community plays a vital role in keeping me accountable and focused on my goals.

Celebrating the Wins

Every week presents a new chance to celebrate our successes, both big and small. Whether it’s my children scoring their first goals of the season or me completing a course module, these moments deserve to be recognized.

I’ve incorporated a habit of gratitude into our daily routine. At dinner, we each share something we felt proud of during the week. This practice not only keeps us motivated but also reinforces valuable lessons about perseverance and hard work in our family.

Reflecting on My Journey

Balancing motherhood, a job, sports, fitness, cooking, and pursuing a coaching certification presents challenges, but I’ve found that embracing sobriety, organizing my time, and building a supportive community allows me to flourish in this busy life.

Navigating this balancing act requires adaptability and resilience. However, with each passing day, I grow more empowered in my pursuit of goals. I may still be managing many tasks, but with every small win, I’m crafting a life filled with purpose and joy.