I Snatch “Me” Time in Small Moments—and Yes, It Matters

Yes, even a quick trip to the store counts.

By Jamie Carter

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: June 13, 2022

I was chatting in a group conversation about how a solo trip to the store, like Target or the grocery store, feels like “me” time, and it’s something I cherish. Another mom mentioned her nightly baths as her personal retreat, something she eagerly anticipates every day.

Then, a friend interjected, insisting that she wouldn’t accept that her life revolves around those tiny moments of self-care. “Showering or going to Target alone doesn’t count as ‘me’ time,” she asserted. “Those are just mundane tasks! Why do we find so much joy in wandering a store alone?”

Honestly, I began to appreciate those moments as soon as I became a parent. After many outings with all three kids, I quickly realized that my peace of mind—and most of my thoughts—vanished when they were with me. Shopping alone has become a luxury; I can sip a Diet Coke, take my time, stick to my list, and think. When I get back in my car, I feel rejuvenated, simply because I had a break.

As a mom, those tiny moments are often all I get. I want to be involved in every aspect of my kids’ lives: taking them to school, being there when they come home, attending all their games, and being their go-to person. But that doesn’t mean I don’t need time for myself. I’m okay with having less of it because I chose this path.

Many mothers share a similar experience—we’re constantly juggling work and parenting. Those small “me” moments are essential for getting us through the day and the weeks. They allow us to recharge and gain perspective. There have been times when a solo trip to Target to grab new sheets has been a lifeline, enabling me to return home as a better mother.

Long gone are the days when I could spontaneously escape for a weekend, meet friends for dinner at a moment’s notice, or decide to hit the mall on a random Tuesday. Back when I could do those things, grocery trips didn’t feel as relaxing or enjoyable.

I still dream of vacations and spa days. I’d love to indulge in a massage while someone cleans my house. However, those experiences are rare for me and many moms I know.

So yes, those tiny “me” moments—when we engage in necessary tasks alone—are what fuel us to tackle the demanding role of motherhood. Finding time for self-care is nearly impossible, especially for single moms like me. I don’t mind if some see my yoga sessions or quiet time in a parking lot with Starbucks as sad. This is our reality, and it’s all many of us can manage.

Being a mother has taught me to appreciate the little things—like enjoying silence, choosing new throw pillows, having lunch alone at a restaurant, or being able to clean myself without a crisis. Just last night, I managed to do my nails without a single knock on the door.

Today, I plan to treat myself to a caffeinated drink and get my car washed. While I sip my soda and watch the suds cascade down the vehicle, I’ll take a moment to center myself and breathe. Being a mom is demanding, and those moments of “me” time are vital. Someday, I’ll have plenty of years after the kids are grown to indulge in vacations and massages whenever I please.

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Summary:

Finding “me” time as a mother is essential, even if it comes in small doses during everyday tasks like shopping alone. These moments allow moms to recharge and maintain their well-being while balancing the demands of parenting. As Jamie Carter shares, appreciating the little things in life becomes critical in nurturing both oneself and one’s family.

Keyphrase: “me time for mothers”

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