How to Be the Best Mom Possible.

Whether you're a new mom or just gave birth to your second or third (or more) child, there's no doubt that you want to be the best parent that you can be for your child or children. While there are no written-in-stone rules for being a good parent, there are a few general guidelines that might help you on your journey. This article will go over a few methods to keep in mind when trying to figure out how to be the best mom possible.

Yue and I at Moomin Cafe, Seoul.

Stay Off Drugs
Perhaps the most obvious is to kick any drug or alcohol habits that you may have. Not only does this teach your children that using drugs is acceptable (which is NOT!) it can also lead to problems further down the line.

For one, drugs are expensive. Money that could be put towards new clothes or even college for your children is instead being allocated to your drug problem. This is an issue. Not only could Child Protective Services be called, but you may run the risk of losing your children forever unless you successfully complete a medical detox program for substance abuse.

Mothers who have an addiction problem should schedule a detox from drugs with a nearby rehab before being forced to by the authorities. Depending on the severity of your addiction, it may take a few days, weeks, or even months. Fortunately, most health insurance and rehab clinics are willing to work together, allowing moms to get the help they need. You simply cannot be the best mom if you're routinely under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The effort on your part to put substance abuse in your past will greatly benefit them in the future.

Working part-time at the fruits and vegetables stand.
Just kidding! :)

Find a Job
Unless your husband or partner makes enough money to easily support the entire family, then you should look for a job and become responsible with money. A lot of the financial decisions aren't based around you alone anymore. You have more than one mouth to feed, not to mention the cost of diapers is something to terrify at times. By securing a job, you can bring in that money (or that extra money) and truly take care of your children.

If you are unable to secure employment or another source of income, you will have no choice but to turn to government assistance for help. However, the level of assistance you’re able to receive is typically set at a bare minimum for a family of your size. There's nothing worse than not having enough money to spend on your child for their birthday or Christmas.

To make sure that you don't experience that guilt, then being employed is the best decision to make. You can only rely on the government for so long, and even then, the amount you receive isn't going to be enough to give your child everything. Not if you want to watch them grow into successful adults with numerous opportunities ahead of them.

Shopping at the Line Friends Store in Doota, Dongdaemun.

Try Not to Spoil
Once you start making that money, the urge to spoil your children is going to be high. However, a lot of character building comes from a child learning to make the most of what I have. While a gift here and there isn't terrible, you shouldn't give in to their every demand. Most especially, even when they're throwing a temper tantrum or causing a scene, it's crucial that you don't give in just to keep them quiet. These are lessons that they will take with them later on in life. It is also an excellent way to show them the importance of money. In order to have nice things, one has to develop a good work routine.

Stay Focused
Being a mom is incredibly busy work. However, you can't let the duties of life distract you from the most important thing--being a good mom for your kids. By following these ideas, you can become the best mom possible.