You know the drill. You wake up, hop in the shower, get the kids ready, eat breakfast, pack lunches, gather your work bag, throw on some clothes and makeup, and you are out the door to drop the kids at school (and it’s rush hour) before dashing into work. Phew!

But you’re not alone.

In a recent poll of over 2,000 working mothers, over 40 percent responded that they were stressed out before even getting to work for the day.  That’s no way to start the day.

Additional poll findings include:

• 42% said they snapped at their children on the way to school regardless of good or bad behavior.
• Approximately 42% admitted to road rage in morning traffic.
• 40% said the school run was the most stressful part of the day, while 38% said making sure their child had the right school supplies, homework, lunch money, and permission slips was the most stressful part of the day.

Does this sound like your day?  If so, maybe it’s time to reconsider your morning routine.  Is there something you can do at night to make the morning less stressful?  Perhaps have lunches ready to go and school/work bags packed and laid out. Sure it might not happen every day, but even a couple less stressful mornings would be beneficial.  Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Start a neighborhood carpool so you only drive your children to school every other day leaving time on your free days to get ready and drive to work in a relaxed time frame.

Either way – just remember – if you are feeling stressed out.  Stop for a moment and take a deep breath to clear your mind!