In the whirlwind of motherhood, it’s easy to succumb to the overwhelming sense of guilt that comes with saying ‘no’ to our children. Recently, when I missed my daughter’s honor roll assembly, I was engulfed in that familiar mom guilt. Despite wanting to support her, I recognized that I was nearing my breaking point. Life, with its myriad responsibilities, was weighing heavily on me, and I desperately needed a moment to breathe and recharge before diving into another long day at work.
The next day, as I chatted with a group of moms at school, I felt compelled to justify my absence. I told them I had to work, which only amplified my guilt. How absurd is it that I felt ashamed for taking a much-needed mental health break? This realization made me furious; why should women feel guilty for taking care of themselves? It’s not selfish—it’s an act of self-love.
Later that afternoon, I decided to share my experience on social media, addressing both my choice and how rejuvenating that time for myself was. I anticipated criticism for prioritizing my own needs over attending the assembly, but I was determined to embrace my truth. I wanted other mothers to understand that it’s perfectly acceptable to say ‘no’ to their kids and ‘yes’ to themselves when life becomes too demanding. After all, nurturing your own well-being is crucial for effectively caring for your children.
As a wise friend reminded me, taking care of ourselves ultimately means we’re better equipped to care for our kids. I make no apologies for missing that assembly, nor do I regret sharing my story online. I encourage other women to do the same. Whether you’re a single parent, a stay-at-home mom, or juggling a demanding job, remember that your children don’t need you at every single event. They need you present and engaged at home—teaching them self-love, instilling a work ethic, and modeling gratitude over grades.
Our daughter knows she is loved and appreciated, and it’s vital that we remain focused on what truly matters rather than what society expects. Missing that assembly was not a failure in parenting; it was a step toward self-care that I will continue to prioritize as our daughters grow and their commitments expand. After all, we can’t pour from an empty cup.
It’s essential to remember that our lives shouldn’t revolve solely around others. With responsibilities, bills, and commitments piling up, it’s easy to lose ourselves in motherhood. However, if we’re not living joyfully and authentically, how can we expect our children to do so? What’s most important is to honor our needs without concern for others’ judgments. If you require time for yourself, take it—because your well-being matters.
In summary, it’s entirely acceptable to prioritize self-care and set boundaries, even with our children. Embrace the idea that you are worthy of time for yourself. For more insights on family dynamics and self-care, check out this excellent resource from Cleveland Clinic on intrauterine insemination. And don’t forget to explore useful tools like the at-home insemination kit, which can also be found on our blog.