I decided to write this blog post as a reminder to myself because I am by no means an expert at it. In fact, you could say that I downright stink at it. “It” is taking time for me. As moms we are constantly being pulled in different directions like salt water taffy in the making. It’s hard to remember that we’re important too! In fact, we’re more than important, we’re the MOST important. And if the most important member of the family is down for the count by cold, flu, or emotional breakdown, then the entire family suffers.
I recently realized it has been way too long since I have done something for myself, and I know if it’s happened to me, it’s happened to you. It’s in our nature as moms to feel guilty the moment we do something just for us. So here are some tips on taking a time out {and there’s no room for guilt, so leave it at the door}:
- Take a Bubble Bath – I’m not talking a wimpy bath that lasts ten minutes and has a few bubbles. I’m talking a real bubble bath made just for you. Light some candles, grab a drink, and dump half a bottle of bubble bath into the tub. Then sit back and relax for at least 20 minutes. Your bubbles are in no danger of disappearing, but you may need a refill on your drink.
- Get a Manicure – Even better, get a pedicure, too. But if you need to ease yourself into this “doing things just for you” thing, you want to start with a manicure. I usually get one manicure a year, but I’ve vowed to change that. It’s the best under $20 you’ll spend, I promise. Because really, who doesn’t like pretty hands?
- Go to a Museum – I have wanted to visit the Phoenix Art Museum for five years now. I finally went for the recent Hollywood Costume Exhibit, but that was basically all I saw. I have made a promise to go check out other areas of the museum by myself, uninterrupted. There are so many different museums from the East Valley and into downtown, you’re bound to find one that offers something you like. Just you and some art. Or pottery. Or planetary stuff. It’s up to you.
- Read a Book – Kick back and read! I gave you some awesome recommendations last month {check them out here}, so line up a friend to watch the kids for a while and pick one up! Don’t think about the list of to do’s you have going on in your head, just make yourself a cup of tea and find a quiet spot to escape in a good book.
- Go Shopping Alone – Leave the kids with the hubby and head over to the mall, even if it is a Friday night. Just browse your favorite stores if you want, or better yet do some actual shopping. There are some amazing sales happening right now. The point is you’ll be by yourself to look and shop as long as you want, or at least until the mall closes. You can even head over to Dairy Queen and pick up your favorite treat, and the best part is, you don’t have to share it with anyone.
I hope these tips have helped! I think it’s just as fun to do these things alone as it is with a friend, so if you know someone in need of some mom time, invite them along! The point is, get out and do things you enjoy and do them as often as possible. Guilt free. You’ll be happier, and therefore, your family will be, too!
What types of things to do you do to take a time out for yourself?
