From responsible to happy moms

The super-responsible mother (ISTJ)
Whether she's overseeing daily baths or, years later, insisting on a 10 p.m. curfew, the ISTJ mom's efforts are largely focused on offering her kids order and routine. She wants them to be able to count on her and the structure she provides. She is organized and detail-oriented, and gives her children practical guidance on being productive, responsible individuals. Still, with all her seriousness, she may delight the family with her quick wit and observations on the details of life.
Stay-sane tip: The best gift an ISTJ mom can give herself is uninterrupted quiet time each day. Find someone who can take the baby to the park for an hour or two while you turn off the phone and savor the stillness.

The action-adventure mother (ESTP)
Active and spontaneous, the ESTP mother can turn ordinary life into a fun-filled adventure, making dull routines exciting. Full of energy and enthusiasm, the ESTP mom gives her children every opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.
The ESTP mother is also matter-of-fact  -- what you see is what you get. She parents without hidden agendas and accepts things as they are. Her children know where they stand, and she develops close relationships with them based on honesty.
Stay-sane tip: Stop comparing yourself to other moms  -- the ones who keep a smooth-running household, have dinner on the table at 6 p.m. each night, and do laundry on Mondays  -- and appreciate your spontaneity.

The give-'em-their-space mother (ISTP)
Nonintrusive and respectful of differences, the ISTP mother gives her children the personal space they need to develop as separate, self-sufficient individuals. She seeks to accept and honor each child's interests and choices, and doesn't believe in authority or control for its own sake (yet she has high expectations for each child's self-discipline). She wants to be there for her kids, to meet their basic needs and keep them safe, but her goal is to help her children think for themselves.
Stay-sane tip: Allow yourself a break from day-to-day household routines. Go see a movie by yourself or visit a bookstore. Hire a housekeeper every once in a while, if you can afford it.

The how-to mother (ESTJ)
Organized and comfortable being in charge, the ESTJ mom knows how to get things done and make things happen for her kids. Upbeat and straight-forward, she's intent that her kids have the best; she puts her skills and talents to work to this end, from planning trips to raising funds for a new playground. As a result, her kids learn what it takes to succeed. She also runs a tight household with consistent routines and well-defined boundaries, which help her children feel safe and secure.
Stay-sane tip: Find a project that can be totally under your control and can act as an outlet for your need for structure. That way, you may find it easier to be flexible and spontaneous when it's called for.

The tender-loving-care mother (ISFJ)
Gentle and kind, the ISFJ mom provides her kids with lots of affection and the comfort of daily routine. She is sensitive to their feelings, offering closeness and support. The ISFJ has a strong sense of duty and consistently puts her kids' needs first. She delights in taking care of the little things that matter to a child, making each one feel special. Aiming for a smooth-running, attractive home, she tends to the practical and domestic. She believes strongly in family traditions.
Stay-sane tip: Try to cultivate your own interests, and put your needs first every so often. Your baby may appreciate your unwavering attention, but in a few years, she'll need more independence.

The totally-there mother (ESFP)
Energetic and people-oriented, the ESFP mom lives in the moment. She enjoys being with her kids and can respond to their needs on the spot, ensuring that they feel loved. Out-going, she engages her kids in a wide variety of experiences; they can count on her to strike up a conversation with just about anyone, introducing them to the joys of meeting different people. She's also attentive to her kids' feelings and is deeply touched by every joy or hurt they experience.
Stay-sane tip: Join a group of mothers with children around the same age as yours. The other moms can offer support (by letting you know that you're "not the only one") and show you different perspectives and ways of doing things.

The giving mother (ISFP)
Unassuming and devoted, the ISFP mom is responsive to her kids' needs, offering behind-the-scenes love and support. She takes pleasure in physically caring for them. Her best times might be doing little things with each child one-on-one because, more than anything, the ISFP mom wants her children to know they are loved. And she enjoys being needed in return. Dedicated to raising caring kids, she instills values by setting a good example. She may be a strong role model for community service.
Stay-sane tip: You may benefit from outside help in learning how to say "no" and assert yourself. A supportive partner, a good friend, or a professional counselor can encourage you to stand up for yourself.

The happy-together mother (ESFJ)
The ESFJ mom strives to create a happy family where togetherness and harmony flourish. Whether she's taking her children to the park or putting on a holiday feast, her efforts are directed toward having everyone get along. To many, the ESFJ mom personifies motherhood: She's domestic, promotes traditional values, provides familial order, and is very involved in her kids' daily lives. People-oriented, she's drawn to community and the social scene. She helps her kids discover the joys of groups.
Stay-sane tip: Remember that a certain amount of conflict is part of any healthy family. Don't let it get to you.