How to (Realistically) Prioritize & Practice Self-Care as a Busy Mom
Hello all you hardworking moms out there! Here's your friendly reminder: You're doing an amazing job. Juggling career responsibilities, children's needs, and household chores is no easy feat. But in the middle of it all, have you ever wondered if you've forgotten to take care of the most important person - YOU?
Let's talk about how you can prioritize and practice self-care amidst your busy routine.
Imagine this scenario: it's a typical weekday morning. You're packing lunches, answering texts and emails (who is up at 4am sending these??), preparing for an important meeting, and trying to get everyone out of the door on time. You're (sort of) running on coffee and determination, hoping to clear your to-do list before the bedtime routine. Then, it’s time to do it all again. Sound familiar? In the middle of this whirlwind, where are you? Where's that 'me time' people are always talking about?
I get it. Being a mom is a full-time job. Add your career to the mix, and it can feel like there aren't enough hours in the day. Most days there aren't. But here's the truth – your well-being matters. You deserve care and attention as much as anyone else in your family. And caring for yourself isn't selfish or even indulgent; it's essential. You can't pour from an empty cup, as they say.
We hear it all the time, and "me time" sounds lovely. But realistically, you're probably thinking, "How do I find time for self-care?" I've got a few ideas for you!
How to Fit Self-Care into Your Busy Schedule
Redefine Self-Care
First, let's redefine self-care. It's not just about spa days or weekend getaways (though they're great too!). Self-care is about taking small, daily steps toward your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It's about listening to your needs and responding with kindness.
Prioritize Your Health & Basic Needs
Start by prioritizing your health. Remember, healthy mom equals a healthy family. Instead of grabbing a quick coffee and pastry, take a few extra minutes to prepare a balanced breakfast. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, nutritious foods, hydration, and regular exercise. Even a 15-minute walk outside will do wonders for your mood, hormones, and energy levels. The better you feel physically, the better you can manage everything else.
Accept that You're Only Human
We often put ourselves under immense pressure to be perfect. But remember, you're human! It's okay to have messy days or to not tick off everything from your to-do list. Give yourself some grace and embrace the beautiful chaos that sometimes comes with motherhood.
Your Emotions & Self-Talk Matter
Next, let's talk about emotional self-care. Cultivate a positive relationship with yourself. Remind yourself to silence that inner critic and replace it with a compassionate voice. Celebrate your successes, however small, and treat your so-called failures as stepping stones, not stumbling blocks. Finished a difficult project at work? Finally decluttered the garage? Those are victories! Celebrate them! Take a moment to acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Reward yourself with a little treat, a movie night, or just some well-deserved downtime.
Ground Yourself in the Moment
Seek out and relish in joyful moments. Don't rush past the small moments because they really add up for you and your kids. A hot cup of tea in peace, a book before bed, silly time on the floor with your kids, a quick call with a friend, or a spontaneous moments with your spouse—these are the parts of life we'll look back on far more than our never-ending checklists. The sink full of dishes can wait. Truly.
Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is another crucial aspect of self-care. Know your limits at work and home, and don't hesitate to communicate them. It's okay to delegate tasks, ask for help, or say no when you're overwhelmed. You’re a supermom, yes, but remember you're also human.
Find Your Zen
Now, onto mental self-care. Take a few moments each day to quiet your mind. It could be through meditation, a calming yoga pose, or simply sitting quietly for a few minutes. (A friend of mine told me she likes to lie on the floor with her legs at a 90-degree angle on the couch. I thought it was silly. Until I tried it. And instantly fell asleep.)
Make Time for What You Love
Remember the hobbies and interests you had before entering the world of diapers and spreadsheets? It's time to revisit them. Whether it's painting, gardening, dancing, or writing, dedicate some time each week for activities you love.
Put it on the Calendar
If it's not scheduled, it often doesn't happen. So, make a date with yourself! It could be a weekly bubble bath, a monthly massage, or a yearly solo trip. Whatever it is, intentionally set aside time for self-care, and protect it fiercely.
Because You're Worth It
We know it’s easier said than done, but every step towards self-care, no matter how small, is progress. You're doing an amazing job juggling so many roles, and it's okay to take a break and focus on yourself.
Remember, you're not just a mom or a working professional; you’re you. Unique, incredible you, not to be defined by what you do or what roles you fill. So, take care of yourself, love yourself, and prioritize your health and happiness.
You've got this, mama. Here's to you and the amazing work you do, both at home and in your career. And here's to your self-care journey, which I hope this post has helped inspire. Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all. What works for one might not work for another, so find what suits you best. It's a journey, not a destination, and each small step you take is a victory.
How are you going to care for yourself this week, the resilient, caring, hardworking mom who is making the world a better place one day at a time?
Document These Days
We all know it. These years fly by, and we’ll soon be missing those tiny toes, chubby cheeks, sticky hands, and precious voices. Freeze time while you can with newborn photography with me. I’d love to help you create heirloom portraits you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
