How to Drop the Guilt and Make Time for Yourself

WARNING: This article comes on the heels of me being home for one week while taking care of my adorable sick kids - you have been warned. **smile**

Being a mother is one of a woman's most challenging yet rewarding experiences. It's a constant juggling act of taking care of your children, home, job, and everything else in between. And while it's important to put your family first, it's also important to take care of yourself. Too often, mothers feel guilty for taking time for themselves, but it's essential for maintaining your health and sanity. As a wife and a mother of two adorable children, I want to share some tips for making time for yourself without feeling guilty.

1. Schedule some "me" time every day. Whether it's a 30-minute workout, a hot bath, or just some quiet time to read or listen to music, make sure you're carving out at least a little bit of time each day to do something that's just for you. And don't feel guilty about it! You deserve it.

2. Find a supportive community. There are plenty of other mothers out there who understand what you're going through. Find a local moms' group or join an online forum so you can vent, share advice, and commiserate with others who get it.

3. Get help when you need it. Don't try to do everything on your own - even if you can do it better or "just right," it isn't worth your sanity! If you need help with the kids or around the house, ask for it before you are so exhausted that your request comes out more like a grizzly bear's roar than human words. Whether it's hiring a babysitter or asking your partner to pitch in more, getting help will free up some much-needed time for you to focus on yourself.

4. Set boundaries with your family and friends. Let your loved ones know that you need some space and that you'll be unavailable for a certain period of time each day. This way, they won't take it personally if you can't always be available, and they'll understand why you need some time to yourself.

5. Make self-care a priority. Just like you make sure your kids are fed and clothed, make sure you're taking care of yourself too. Eat healthy meals, exercise regularly (remember your REAL "why" if you don't feel like exercising), and get enough sleep so you can be the best mother possible. Even if you skipped a workout (or two, or three, or 15), it is better to start today than to go another day without moving towards your health goal. Remember, every little bit counts.

Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your family—if not more so! By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and scheduling some "me" time into your day, you can avoid burnout and "grumpy bear syndrome" and be the best mother possible. So go ahead and book that yoga class, take a jog on your treadmill, pull up a video, and work out in your living room—your family will thank you for it in the long run!

Thanks for reading!

Stay encouraged, mommas!

Want help keeping (or getting) your health on track? Reach out to me!

With much love,

Dr. Kirsten Grant