More often than not, moms with young children can't find extra time for themselves, and if they do it is usually spent cleaning, finding something new and fun for the kids to do, or taking a much deserved nap. Is this you? If so, I know it's hard to find time for you, but you must remember:
If you are struggling to find personal time, try making it a real priority. Here's how:
1) Sit down and choose one activity you really would love to do just for you. This might be reading a good book, meditating, talking to a friend (uninterrupted), walking the dog, learning something new, or simply doing nothing, on purpose. If you're struggling to come up with something, try to remember what you enjoyed doing before you had kids. Is there something from your past you would like to start doing again?
2) Once you've chosen your activity, write down any time(s) throughout the week you know you could squeeze it in. This could be in the morning before the kids are up, at night after their bedtime, or on the weekends when they can be with Dad, etc.
3) Once you've chosen a time that'll work for you and your family, mark it on the calendar, in ink! It might be daily, bi-weekly, or weekly, but try to schedule a personal time appointment at least once a week. You deserve it!
4) This is now your self-appointment, so don't forget to keep your appointment. Make it a priority, and explain to your family how important this personal time is for you.
5) Ask for help, if you need it, in order to keep your self-appointment. Do you need a babysitter? Can you switch off babysitting days with a mom-friend so you can both have time to yourself? Can the kids be with Dad or grandparents during this time? Moms need help too, so don't be afraid to ask for it.
Your personal time is not just for you, it's for your whole family. So don't put it off any longer! Make your self-appointment, ask for help, and stick with it. Your life will be blessed for it.
Co-Written by Teresa Hancock and Angela Hancock
