As moms, it’s always hard to find a few minutes to ourselves. But add in a pandemic and quarantine and it’s basically impossible. Everyone always needs something from you, whether it’s the kids, your partner, or your pets! I want to remind you that you do not have to love being with your kids 24/7 in order to be a good mom. It’s ok to want space from them. It’s ok to want to be left alone. It’s ok to need a break.
If we can’t find ways to get space and take breaks, our bodies will eventually force us to.
A few weekends ago, I hit a wall and ended up with a massive migraine and dizziness. I couldn’t do anything but lay in bed. It was SO frustrating. I had a lot that I wanted to get accomplished that day, but my body was literally forcing me to chill.
So I want you to think about some ways that you can build in a break for yourself. Here are some simple things that you can start doing immediately:
- Go on a solo walk in the evenings.
- Take a solo car ride (that doesn’t involve running errands).
- Lock yourself in your room at night to read a book, watch a show, or listen to a podcast.
- Fit in an early morning, or late evening, workout.
- Swap babysitting time with a friend. She takes your kids one day, and you take her kids another.
And I know this is annoying, but you are going to have to spell this out for your partner. You’re going to have to express your need for a break. Sadly, they can’t read our minds or our body language. You’re going to have to say outright, “I’m going to take an hour to myself on this day, I need you to take the kids”. And you SHOULD NOT FEEL GUILTY ABOUT IT. You are allowed to take care of yourself!
So remember, you are allowed to want a break from your kids. You are still a good mom if you don’t love their company 24/7. No mom guilt, or shame, allowed in these parts!
