Momma’s, make time for yourself! I can’t stress this enough. The saying is true, you can’t pour from an empty cup. If your soul isn’t filled with the things that bring you joy you’ll struggle in every aspect of life.
When I became a foster mom I was determined to not lose myself. I wanted to know that if a child in our care was reunited with their birth parents, I wouldn’t get lost. I wanted to know that I could return to being the person I was before. The woman who loves to workout, write and travel. I wanted to know that my identity wouldn’t solely be wrapped up in who I was for another person.
After bubba arrived my husband and I decided that every Monday, Wednesday and Friday when he came home from work I would go to the gym, or walk around the park or have drinks with friends. Whatever I choose to do that day. On Tuesdays and Thursdays David does whatever he wants to do. We don’t set a time limit, whenever we get home, we get home. The parent who is home with bubba takes care of his bedtime routine. I’m so thankful we set this schedule for ourselves! We both feel like we can still enjoy the things that fill us up without having any guilt.
After a good workout or a laugh with friends I feel like I can take on the world. I feel like I can be the momma bubba needs and the wife my husband needs.
I would strongly recommend setting a schedule with your spouse that includes “me time.” If you can’t make that work, block out some time during your day. Use nap time to do something you enjoy at home. When your little one goes down for the night, do something that brings you joy. Even if you’re tired, even if you’d rather sleep when they sleep, find a little time for yourself. It will make the world of difference, for you and for your family!
