Is it possible for a mom to get some me time by simply announcing, “I don’t work past 8 P.M.”? According to an article in the July 2007 issue of Parenting, it really is that simple. The article was called, Quirky Rules that Work and assures readers that this simple strategy will have them off duty at a specific time each night.
The plan is for moms to go off duty at their kid’s bedtime. Instead of saying that you won’t perform any mom duties after 8, you are supposed to say it’s a rule. According to the author, she told her kids, ages 6 and 2, that the U.S. Department of Labor had a new rule stating that she couldn’t perform any mom duties after 8. All mom tasks had to be performed before that time- baths, games, bedtime stories, etc. She claims her kids and husband became more conscience of the time and made sure everything they needed from mom was done by 8. She says it works because you’re not telling others what to do; instead, the rule applies to you and what you can’t do. You are simply enforcing the law.
If I tried something like this, I doubt if it would work. And believe me I am willing to try most methods I read or hear about. First, I don’t like the idea of fibbing about this being a government rule. As your kids get older they are going to find out you made it up. In fact, they may find out sooner if they mention it to their friends. Also, if you have a spouse available to help out if the kids require assistance when you’re off duty that’s great but what about single parents? You can’t ignore your kids needs. And even if you have a spouse what happens if he’s out of town or works late and the kids need assistance? Then again, it just might work for some people. If you try this and it works, let me know. I would be curious to know how you did it!
See also:
Tips to Recharge Your Batteries
Sneaking Me Time into Your Day