This is a collaborative post
Being a mother is a fulfilling yet challenging role that often feels like juggling two full-time jobs. With children aged 5 to 12, you’re likely clocking in an average of 98 hours a week. No wonder finding time for yourself seems like a distant dream. Yet making time for yourself is crucial to maintaining mental and physical well-being.
Self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s a quiet moment in nature, a cosy corner with a good book, or simply using the bathroom without interruptions, these small pockets of time can rejuvenate you.
The challenge lies in actively making space for these moments amidst the whirlwind of daily tasks. Busy schedules leave little room for hobbies or interests that nourish the soul.
Making time for what you love, even if it’s just a little bit, can really change your day. Try setting aside some quiet moments for everyone in the family, where you can enjoy your own interests. If your little ones are napping, that’s the perfect chance to dive into a good book or explore a hobby you’re passionate about.
Whatever form of downtime appeals to you, here are 5 ideas to help you create that space on a regular basis.
1. Make chores a family affair.
Getting your family involved in household tasks can really help create more personal time for everyone! You can assign age-appropriate chores to each family member—like setting the table or folding laundry. This way, you lighten your load while also teaching the kids some useful life skills.
Why not turn those everyday tasks into fun bonding moments? Play some music or make a game out of it! For instance, see who can pick up toys the fastest or sort the laundry by colour.
By teaming up, you not only finish the chores quicker but also make time for yourself and strengthen those family connections.
2. Simplify Meals: Find time-saving meal strategies.
Simplifying meal preparation can give you more personal time to enjoy. Consider rotating meal planning with your partner by taking turns on shopping lists or cooking. Meal delivery services can be incredibly helpful when life gets busy!
Tools like slow cookers or instant pots make dinner easy, allowing you to prepare tasty meals without much effort. Cooking double batches can also stock your freezer for busy days, reducing stress and ensuring quick options are available.
Focus on simple, nutritious meals that your kids love, like baked beans on a baked potato or bacon and eggs with fruit. Quick favourites like chicken nuggets and mac and cheese are perfectly fine for those busy nights too!
Try out these strategies to create a balance between enjoying your meals and having more time for yourself!
3. Plug in rather than tuning out.
Take a moment to enjoy the little things. If your kids are eager to play while you’re making dinner, it’s totally fine to take a break and order a pizza or make sandwiches. Family time can really refresh everyone!
Sometimes, putting your to-do list aside to connect with your kids is just what you need. You might find that you can tackle your tasks better after those special moments.
Try spending five or ten minutes in the morning to snuggle and chat about the day ahead. This small gesture can make the morning feel smoother!
You can also include your kids in daily tasks. While it might not be the quickest way to get dinner done, giving them age-appropriate jobs lets them take pride in what you’re doing together and creates wonderful bonding moments.
4. Make a pact with other moms.
Partnering with other moms is a great way to share childcare! By taking turns watching each other’s kids, you can enjoy some much-needed personal time without hiring a babysitter. Setting up a rotating schedule allows everyone a chance to focus on themselves—it’s a win-win!
Consider organizing monthly meetups to strengthen friendships and share ideas for balancing responsibilities. Coordinating playdates that fit your schedule is another great option. When kids are happily playing together, you get some uninterrupted time to relax or pursue hobbies. Sharing these moments helps create a wonderful community where everyone’s well-being is prioritized!
5. Find outside help
Getting extra help can really lighten the load for busy moms! Consider hiring a babysitter or nanny for some well-deserved personal time. If that’s not an option, why not swap babysitting duties with a friend? Local community centres also offer supervised play programs for a little breather.
Don’t forget about helpful apps like Annie Baby Monitor, which let you keep an eye on your kids, allowing you to relax without worry. This baby monitor app can help you keep a watchful eye on your sleeping baby or older kids playing on their own, freeing you up for focused “me time.”
Outsourcing chores like housekeeping, grocery delivery, or meal prep can also free up time for self-care or hobbies.
Lastly, joining a babysitting co-op is a great way to share childcare with other parents, build community, and earn some points for yourself!
You are the perfect mom!
When you take time for yourself as a mom, it’s not just about taking a moment to relax, it’s also about recharging and being the best version of yourself! Embrace these small moments and find strategies that work for you in your busy life – every little step you take in taking care of yourself is a win for your whole family. Whether you enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, share laughs while tackling household chores, or explore a new hobby, these moments truly count!
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post