You’d think that being a stay-at-home mom like myself would mean plenty of “me-time”, right?
Well, I thought so, too.
But boy oh boy, I was completely mistaken.
With two kids, the youngest now a toddler, the to-do list at home seems never-ending. Just like the laundry pile that constantly overflows from the hamper.
Some days, finding “me-time” in the chaos of motherhood can feel like chasing a distant dream, buried beneath the weight of never-ending tasks.
But, in my experience, though it’s challenging, I’ve learned it’s not impossible.
It just takes a little bit of planning, a lot of patience, and the willingness to let go of some of that pressure we put on ourselves.
So, here’s how I manage to prioritize some much-needed time for myself in the whirlwind of motherhood. I hope that it will inspire you to do the same, because you deserve it.
Plan Your Days or Week
Since becoming a mom, I’ve found that organizing my week in advance helps me mentally prepare for the chaos ahead.
It’s not just about managing chores—it’s about intentionally creating space for me in my schedule.
Even if it’s just ten minutes here or a quiet cup of coffee there, planning gives me control over my time, creating those small moments of peace that I so desperately need.
I’m no longer lost in the chaos but actively creating moments for myself and cherishing the joy that solitude brings.
Stick to a Daily Routine
Yes, life with kids can be unpredictable, but having a routine has helped me keep things in order. I created a schedule that aligns with the kids’ needs but also allows me to carve out time for myself.
Knowing when my tasks end and my “me time” begins helps me feel grounded and gives me something to look forward to.
Routines might feel rigid, but they can set you free. It’s something that can help guide you through the day.
Even if everything doesn’t go to plan (and let’s face it, in motherhood, it rarely does), having that structure helps me stay focused and ready to find those precious moments for myself to recharge.
Enjoy Little Pockets of Time
One of my favorite things is seizing those small, fleeting moments. When the kids are still asleep and the house is quiet, that’s when I steal a few moments for myself.
I use that time to stretch, do a quick skincare routine, do a few minutes of deep breathing, or simply sit in silence with my thoughts.
On those rare quiet mornings, I slip out of bed before the chaos begins and sneak in a 10-minute walk outside. Just breathing in the fresh air and feeling the sun on my skin centers me for the day ahead.
These moments might seem small, but they fill my cup, restore my spirit, and remind me that self-care, no matter how brief, is transformative.
Set Boundaries
For so long, I thought I had to be with my kids every second of every day. But learning to set boundaries with my family has been life-changing.
There are times when their dad takes them out for a while, and instead of feeling guilty for not tagging along, I stay home.
It wasn’t easy at first. All these intrusive thoughts come up leaving me anxious all the time. As a mom, you constantly worry about your kids, and letting go can feel like a battle.
But now, I’m learning to embrace those quiet moments alone, whether it’s catching up on work, reading a book, or laying on a hammock, doing nothing.
It’s in those moments of solitude that I reconnect with who I am outside of being a Mom, helping me feel like me again.
Ask for Help
I used to think I had to do everything myself until I realized how important it was to ask for help.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness— it’s an act of self-love.
Once a week, I take half a day for myself. During that time, my partner watches the kids while I head out for some “me time.”
Sometimes I meet up with friends, snorkel at the beach, do some laps in the pool, or simply lounge in the hammock, soaking in the peace.
These hours are my sanctuary, and they recharge me in a way nothing else can. It’s my time to reflect and reconnect with myself.
Mama, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s asking a friend or your partner to step in for a few hours, giving yourself that time is crucial.
Embrace the Little Things
Self-care doesn’t have to be grand or time-consuming. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make the biggest difference, like enjoying a warm cup of coffee, listening to music, or sitting outside in the sun.
These small acts of kindness to yourself might feel insignificant at the moment, but over time, they build up and create a profound impact on your well-being.
Mama, I know how hard it can be to find time for yourself with everything else demanding your attention.
But YOU matter. And your well-being matters.
Your happiness, comfort, and fulfillment are just as important as everything else on your to-do list.
You’re not just a mother. You’re a person who has hopes, dreams, and aspirations, and those deserve space too.
So start today, one small step at a time, and watch as those moments of peace breathe life back into your spirit.
You deserve to feel like the vibrant, fulfilled woman you are, not just for your family, but for you.
And trust me, when you begin prioritizing yourself, you’ll notice how much of a difference it makes—not just in your life, but in the way you show up for your loved ones.
You’ve got this, Mama! Let’s make time for you because you truly deserve every bit of it.