5 Tips for Busy Moms to Find Time for Themselves

Being a mom means constantly putting others first. From getting the kids ready for school to cleaning up endless spills and running after energetic toddlers, it can be a whirlwind. Amidst this, it's easy to forget about yourself. The concept of 'Mom time' might seem like a luxury you can't afford.

But remember, your well-being is just as important. Wondering how to squeeze in some much-needed self-care into your packed schedule?

 

Audrey Hepburn once wisely said, "As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." This is especially true for mothers. Though it might feel like your hands are always full, it's crucial to find time for yourself.

We're here with five simple yet effective self-care tips to help you reclaim your 'Mom time'.

1.Take Regular Breaks

It's common for moms to feel guilty about taking time out for themselves, believing they should always be active. But taking breaks is crucial, not just a luxury. Just like sleep, where we 'do nothing' yet it's essential for our functioning, breaks are vital for effective parenting. They benefit not just you, but your entire family. 

You don't need to plan anything grand. Begin with simple, short activities like a 10-minute bath, a brief walk, or enjoying a few pages of your favorite book in peace. These small pauses can make a big difference in your overall well-being.

 

After this initial personal time, our regular day kicks in. We enjoy an hourly walk or jog around the neighborhood, a perfect way to energize for the day ahead. Then, I move on to preparing breakfast for the family and handling household chores like laundry. Once these are done, my workday begins. Establishing a routine like this helps in staying productive and mindful about the tasks at hand.

Remember, it's okay if you can't manage everything right away. Start by adding just one or two enjoyable activities to your daily routine and gradually build from there. The key is to find activities that bring you joy and weave them into your everyday life.

2.Delegate and Share Responsibilities

Being a 'super mom' isn't about doing everything alone. It's okay to seek help. You don't need to shoulder all responsibilities by yourself. Get your partner involved, or if you're a single mom, reach out to family members or close friends. Sharing tasks, even the small ones, can significantly reduce your workload, creating more personal time for you.

This doesn't always mean delegating big tasks. Even having someone assist with grocery shopping, meal preparation, or babysitting can make a huge difference. If certain chores feel overwhelming, consider outsourcing them.

 

For instance, if laundry seems like a daunting task, consider using a laundry service or asking someone for help. This approach not only lightens your load but also gives you precious time to recharge and focus on self-care.Selecting the right babysitter is crucial for peace of mind. A good babysitter should be responsible and connect well with your children, ensuring their safety and happiness. If budget is a concern, consider a babysitting swap with another mom. This arrangement can be mutually beneficial and cost-effective. 

3.Set Boundaries and Saying "NO"

It's common for moms to overextend themselves in an effort to please others. However, this can be detrimental to both your own well-being and your family's. Setting boundaries and learning to say "NO" is crucial, especially when requests don't align with your values or aspirations.

Prioritizing yourself is not only acceptable, but necessary. It's perfectly fine to cancel plans if you're feeling overwhelmed or tired. Respecting your own limits and being unafraid to enforce boundaries with others is vital. Remember, your responsibility is to your own well-being, not managing others' emotions.

4. Stay active

As a mom, finding time to exercise can be a challenge, but the good news is that even short, 15-minute workouts can significantly reduce stress.

 

Outdoor activities are great for sticking to an exercise routine. You could cycle to the store, jog with a stroller, or even use playground equipment for exercises like pull-ups and tricep dips.

Exercising with family can also be enjoyable. Children often love joining in, making use of things like exercise balls, resistance bands, and jump ropes. Dance workouts and aerobics are great if your toddler likes to copy movements and stay active alongside you.

Swimming is another fantastic activity that kids usually love. While you might not be able to swim laps, simply playing in the pool can be a fun way to move your body and meet some of your fitness needs. The key is to be active enough to elevate your heart rate, even if it's for a short duration.

5.Set Up a Safe Play Area for Your Children

 

Every mom knows the importance of a moment to breathe or simply relax, which happens often in any household. By setting a safe and engaging play area for your children, you can ensure they're entertained while you take a much-needed break.

This not only ensures their safety but also provides you with peace of mind. There are numerous options available for setting up such a space. Whether it's designating a specific room, sectioning off a corner of your living area, or using playpens and baby gates, you can create a safe environment tailored to your child's needs.

 

When your child starts to crawl and discover their surroundings, home safety becomes paramount. Baby gates are a vital component in safeguarding your little one. No matter how well you've baby-proofed, the natural curiosity of children can lead them into potentially dangerous situations.

 

This approach is invaluable for any parent seeking to balance the care of their child with their own need for peace and tranquility at home.As you start to regularly schedule time for yourself, you'll notice a positive impact on your ability to care for others. Set reminders and prioritize this personal time to maintain your well-being. Doing so helps you to continue being the fantastic, rock star mom you are!