Raising kids is tough, round-the-clock job. But even if moms don’t get official leaves, we need to find “me time.” We deserve at least one hour for ourselves, and only ourselves. Here are some simple ways to escape from the tantrums and daily grind and to nurture our spirit.
1. Feed your mind. Moms need intellectual stimulation too, and we’re unlikely to get it from Dr. Seuss and Disney Playhouse. Read a good book, even if you can only take in a chapter a day. Bring it around with you so you can sneak in a couple of chapters while the baby naps or you sit in the dentist’s office.
2. Don’t give in to mommy frump. Even if you’re just at home, take an extra minute to fix your hair or wear your favorite lipstick or perfume. It’s not vanity: when you look good, you feel good, and that will boost your energy levels and your confidence. You don’t even need to spend a fortune on beauty products: these beauty tips for busy moms help you find new uses for makeup you already have.
3. Give yourself small treats. What are the little things that make you happy? Sparkly pens? Fresh flowers? Chocolate and mint ice cream? Make a list of 30 things that make you smile and go out and get them!!!
4. Drop out of the mompetition. You don’t have to be a perfect mom, and you shouldn’t be pressured to “match” what your co-parents are doing. Find your own parenting style and cut yourself some slack when you make mistakes. You may be a mom, but you’re still human.
5. Reconnect with friends. Not just the fellow soccer moms or playdate moms but friends who share your interests, offer stimulating conversation, or are just plain fun to hang out with. Organize a girl’s night out and don’t talk about the kids (it’s also a great chance to get dad more involved with the kids)
Originally posted on September 30, 2011 @ 4:47 pm
