5 Tips on How to Survive Solo Parenting (From Someone Living It)

When people ask me how I manage solo parenting while juggling work, finances, and life in general, I usually smile and say, “One day at a time.”

But the truth is, it’s taken a lot of trial and error, late-night tears, early-morning coffee-fueled pep talks, and some serious inner work to survive and eventually, start thriving.

Whether you’re brand new or years into the chaos of solo parenting, here are five tips that have helped me stay grounded, organized, and well… sane.

1. Start With You (Even When It Feels Impossible)

This might sound cliché, but it’s the single biggest mindset shift that changed everything for me: Take care of yourself first.

When I stopped running on empty and started creating intentional moments for myself, even just 15 minutes of quiet with tea or a quick stretch, I had more energy, more patience, and more clarity to handle the hard stuff.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s strategic.

2. Embrace Systems Over Stress

Between five school schedules, snacks, laundry, appointments, and co-parenting logistics, my brain used to feel like an overflowing browser with 40 tabs open.

Now? I use routines and systems like my life depends on them , because honestly, it does.

Color-coded calendars, meal plans, and prep-the-night-before habits give me just enough structure to avoid the daily scramble.

3. Accept the Help You’d Gladly Give

One of the hardest lessons: I don’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s a friend picking up from school, trading childcare with another parent, or saying yes to a neighbor’s offer, help is strength, not weakness.

Solo parenting doesn’t mean you parent in isolation. Build your village however you can.

4. Don’t Let Finances Steal Your Peace

Let’s be real, financial pressure hits differently when it’s all on you.

For me, creating a realistic budget (with breathing room) and automating what I can has brought a sense of control I didn’t know I needed.

I also highly recommend getting a financial planner.

5. Give Yourself More Grace Than Guilt

You’re not just surviving, you’re doing a thousand little things every day that matter.

You’re building a home, guiding tiny (or not-so-tiny) humans, navigating emotions, finances, and logistics solo. That’s a whole lot of badass in my book.

On the hard days, remind yourself: You’re allowed to be tired. You’re allowed to cry. And you’re absolutely allowed to still be proud of yourself.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Solo parenting is hard — but you don’t have to figure it out without support.

I share honest tips, wellness routines, and life hacks for solo parents trying to stay grounded and glow up.

Want more encouragement + self-care ideas that actually fit your life?

Follow me on instagram, Facebook, or threads @wellwithsamantha