It's so easy to get caught up in taking care of others and neglecting your own needs, so here's a not-so-subtle reminder to anyone who needs it...
Many of us feel guilty when we prioritise ourselves, thinking we should always put others first. I’m sorry to remind you that mum-guilt is a real thing and it is here to stay. However, it’s essential to remember that self-care is not selfish – it’s necessary for our well-being and overall happiness. It’s all about finding small practical ways to put yourself first for your health and happiness as well as those around you.
Here are some tips from the G&J team on how to put yourself first without feeling guilty:
Recognise Your Worth:
Number one. Understand that your needs and feelings are just as important as anyone else’s. Repeat that to yourself if you have to or set a daily reminder on your phone.
You deserve to be happy and healthy, and taking care of yourself is not a luxury – it’s a necessity.
Set Boundaries:
Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities and values. You don’t have to do everything or take up every invitation or request. Ask yourself; will it enrich me or will it suck out my energy. You know the answer. Less I should. More I want to.
This means also establishing boundaries with your family to allow yourself the time you need and leads neatly onto the next point.
Schedule “Me Time”:
Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing a hobby, setting aside dedicated “me time” is essential for recharging your batteries, even if it is only a few minutes every day (but aim for an hour at least!)
Get some sleep:
Getting enough rest is crucial for your physical and mental well-being. We all know this. Make it happen. Do what you need to do to ensure everything is in place for a good night’s sleep. Quality sleep improves mood, energy levels, and overall health, so make it a priority to get adequate rest.
Ask and accept help:
Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks and accept help from your partner, family members, and/or friends. It’s okay to ask for support and share the responsibilities of parenthood. You don’t need to be able to do it all. In fact, do you know anyone who can?
Building a support network helps to provide a sense of community and understanding. Whether it’s through local groups, online forums, or social media, connecting with other parents can be beneficial for sharing experiences and receiving support.
Let Go of Perfectionism:
Accept that it’s okay not to have everything under control all the time. Embrace imperfection and allow yourself to make mistakes without self-criticism. Be real, not perfect.
And be kind to yourself and let go of self-judgment. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a friend in need.
Stay Active:
Finding time for exercise can be challenging, but it’s important for both your physical health and mental well-being. Consider incorporating short, effective workouts or family-friendly activities to stay active
Remember, by taking care of yourself, you’re setting a positive example for your children and showing them the importance of self-care. Putting yourself first doesn’t mean neglecting your family – it means recognising that your well-being is essential for creating a happy and healthy home environment. Embracing self-care as a mum is a powerful way to nurture your own happiness and strengthen the love and support you provide to your family.
