Last week we looked at a “Mom” topic – this week will be a “Me” topic. We’re all able to be better moms (and friends, and daughters, and sisters, and wives, and so forth) when we’re acknowledging and honoring who we are as individual women, apart from all our other roles. In the weeks to come, we’ll explore many “Me” aspects of our lives, in hopes of finding more balance in the non-parenting realm.
Where better to start than with a little FUN! This is one of the most easily overlooked areas for many moms, because we’re usually so busy taking care of everyone else that we can forget how important it is to take care of us too. And generally, if we don’t make the time for ourselves, no one is going to do it for us.
Take a minute and think about the things you really love to do that have nothing to do with your kids. Spending time with friends? Scrapbooking? Taking a nap? Going to a movie? Reading a book (and no, Goodnight Moon doesn’t count)? Taking an hour to browse through your favorite store all by yourself, wandering only through the women’s section, without having to locate the nearest restroom, changing table or water fountain?
Especially if your children are very young, you may not have big blocks of time – but there are usually little windows here and there, if you’re looking for them. Where could you find an hour or two just for you? Naptime? After bedtime? During preschool or school? What could you do with this time that would make you feel the most satisfied? Who could watch the kids for you, if you wanted to go somewhere?
I’ve had some moms tell me that all of this seems like more trouble than it’s worth… but it shouldn’t be. Yes, it may take some planning to set aside a little “Me” time. However, think about how much better you’ll feel afterward, and how much more you’ll have to offer in your other roles when you get an occasional break, and you’ll realize that it’s worth the effort.
Your assignment: Think of one fun activity you could do for yourself in the next week, and figure out a way to make it happen. You’re worth it!
