Book Review: How to be a Happier Mum by Nicky Arthur

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Being happier, healthier, more in tune with life. Isn’t that what we all need?

This book was sent to me at an interesting time. I was struggling, and needed some direction to become happier again. Let’s face it; we all have times like that, and it can take some effort to find your ‘mojo’ again.

Author Nicky Arthur has compiled a self-help book for anyone feeling that way. Understanding that life as a mother can be, at times, busy and overwhelming and purely focused on others, she reminds us that we really do need to look after number one. No, not your child; yourself. Yes, she says, it is vital for you to take care of yourself, for a number of reasons: being happy, but also so you can look after your children and face up to the demands of day-to-day life.

Although entitled How to be a Happier Mum, this book isn’t just focused on mothers. With advice on life in general, other women will also benefit and find advice on how to live a happier life. How to be a Happier Woman, perhaps, could be a more apt title.

Compiled in a simple to read fashion, How to be a Happier Mum is broken down into sections and sub-sections that cover all areas of life. From nutrition and exercise to beauty, yoga and meditation to affirmations, relationships to careers and goals – this is a comprehensive look at everything we do.

Readers will find that some sections hit home – helping to highlight which areas they should focus on to make their lives happier – while others aren’t quite as important to them at this point. And, of course, Arthur’s views and what has worked for her won’t always match what others need. While she does provide many options and other viewpoints in the book, it does mostly cover the things she has found to work for her – and things like affirmations and yoga won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.

Having said that, it’s worth a look. Who knows? You might not think those things are for you, but you won’t know for sure until you explore them further.

It’s not all about Arthur’s life, though, and it isn’t pie in the sky stuff; this book actually provides some solid tips and advice for life, including goal setting, dietary advice and making time for yourself. After all, as Arthur says, “scheduling in this time out is a stepping stone to a healthier, happier and more fulfilled you”.

That all-elusive ingredient to life – happiness – can be yours. Some of us just need a little reminder from time to time, a small amount of assistance in finding ourselves among the daily routine.

Happiness is worth the effort. And this book is worth a read to help you get there.