I don’t know about you, but I’m exhausted. Because the sad truth is that I put myself last. I woke-up this morning determined to place a priority on me and my needs and that’s scary to admit.
For the past nine years I’ve been busy taking care of little babies who’ve needed and depended on me completely. I’ve loved and treasured every moment of it, but throughout these past years I’ve forgotten about me and that breaks my heart.
As a mother it is so easy to forget about ourselves and our needs. Too often we’re told it’s wrong to meet mommy’s needs, because we’re being selfish or what not. And then there’s Pinterest offering millions of pins “helping” to make sure we are the perfect Stepford wife and mother. It’s overwhelming when you think about it.
This isn’t meant to be a whiny post (in case it comes off that way), but rather a self-awareness post.
So I’d like you to know. . .
Today I’m making changes to make sure my needs are met and I’m not lost in the busyness of everyday life.
- I’m going to make sure I sit down and eat my meals everyday. Too often I’m eating on the run while running my children to school or their activities. Or my toddler is extra clingy and wants me to hold her non-stop and I can’t make a proper meal for myself.
- I need to go to the gym and have 30 minutes to better myself and take care of my health. My toddler isn’t a big fan of the kid play area, but I’m hoping she grows out of it sooner than later.
- My clients need to understand what is considered an emergency and what is just a request. I need to set a certain time they can reach me and avoid checking on their wants at the end of the night.
- It’s okay for me to hire a housekeeper to deep clean my house once a quarter. Between balancing work, taking care of my kids, husband and dog, there’s not enough time in the day for me to really clean out the nooks and crannies that accumulate so much debris.
- If I need a massage, it’s a great idea for me to go ahead and schedule one. Releasing any tension and stress I have makes me a better mother, wife, person.
- I need adult interaction that doesn’t involve my clients. If I want to have lunch with a girlfriend without the kids it is okay. They have time with their friends and I should too!
I’m sure there are other things I could add to the list, but these are really basic needs I can and should meet.
I’m not the perfect homemaker, mother, wife or person (nor do I want to be), and I’m not Superwoman and that’s okay!
Do you feel overwhelmed with busyness or feel like you’ve forgotten about you and your needs?
This essay and I are part of the Messy, Beautiful Warrior Project — To learn more and join us, CLICK HERE! And to learn about the New York Times Bestselling Memoir Carry On Warrior: The Power of Embracing Your Messy, Beautiful Life, just released in paperback, CLICK HERE!
This post was feature on The Blogger’s Digest! Thank you for the honor, Jess!
