“Just don’t be one of those moms who dumps her kids at the sitter’s so she can hit the gym or enjoy some time alone.”
Those were the parting words from a potential babysitter for my two boys. She was an experienced woman with a spotless home and the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal lingering around. I considered hiring her until she felt the need to share her unsolicited advice.
Like many new parents, I was inundated with “helpful” tips and warnings the moment I revealed my pregnancy. Most of the time, I responded with a polite smile or a simple “thanks, I hadn’t thought of that.” But when it comes to my approach to personal time, I won’t offer any apologies.
I’m the mom who enrolls my toddler in part-time daycare, not just because he enjoys it (he does), or because it’s beneficial for his growth (it is), but because I genuinely need a breather.
I’m the one who drops the kids off at Grandma’s so I can catch a concert. And while I might tell you I only do it for the shows I’m excited about, sometimes I just want to escape the house—even if it’s to see a band I’ve never heard of.
I’m the mother who sneaks out for coffee dates with friends on Saturday afternoons. Those quick coffee breaks often morph into long lunches filled with laughter and fantastic discussions, making it hard to return home at a sensible hour. Sure, I could say it’s important for the kids to bond with their dad, which it is, but sometimes, I just crave adult conversation and delicious food.
I’m the mom who drops the kids off at the neighbor’s house under the guise of running errands, but really? I’m off to indulge in a massage and an eyebrow wax. I know the baby might be crying and the toddler may be throwing a fit, but hey, these shoulders are in desperate need of relief!
I’m the one who makes reservations at that fancy restaurant for a Friday night out with my husband. I’m fully aware the kids will be munching on junk food and binge-watching movies with the teenage babysitter. I could pretend it bothers me, but honestly, it doesn’t.
So, to the babysitter who warned me against being “one of those” mothers, guess what? I already am. I leave my kids with the sitter to go for a jog after work or simply to enjoy a chat with my colleagues. I intentionally carve out time for myself because if I don’t, who will?
These little escapes provide me with much-needed breathing room. They reinforce that while I am connected to my children, we are also individuals who benefit from time apart to foster our independence—both theirs and mine. It’s a reminder that my needs matter, too.
And I refuse to apologize for prioritizing my own well-being.
For more insights on self-care and family life, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination or explore other topics like this informative blog on artificial insemination kits.
In summary, taking time for yourself as a parent is essential. It fosters independence and reaffirms your identity beyond being a parent. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for making it a priority.
Keyphrase: prioritizing self-care as a parent
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