As a single mother it easy to get so wrapped up in your child’s life that you forget that you also have a life. How many times have you forgotten your own birthday until your mother calls to remind you? And then after you get off the phone, you go right back to forgetting. When you are solely responsible for the little people in your life it’s easy to forget about yourself.
So many times we forget that we have needs too, even if it’s just for an uninterrupted bath. It is necessary for your mental health to remember that you are important too. Remember to do nice things for yourself, it will make you feel better but it will also teach your children that you are not just their mother but a person with thoughts, feelings and needs.
Hopefully your children will never be single parents but if they ever are, you will have set an example that it is important to take care of yourself. I know if I take some time for me, I’m a better mom. I have more patience, I am willing to listen a little longer, maybe bake some cookies.
Don’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself, after all, you take care of everyone, if you don’t keep yourself mentally healthy by meeting your own needs, how will you take care of theirs?
Starting today, do something nice for yourself every day. It doesn’t have to be a huge thing. I love taking a cup of coffee on the back steps and watching the day wake up while Hailey is still asleep. It sets the tone for my whole day. Find something that brings you joy, one little moment that you can stop and look around without anything to do but just be.
Next year, let the kids help bake a birthday cake for you. Let them celebrate their mom, while you take a moment to look around at the people who mean the most to you.