Care For Yourself So You Can Care For Them

S o Y o u C an C are FOR T hem by Contributing Writer Care For Yourself

Being a mom is gratifying and rewarding. At the same time, it can be exhausting and draining. When I think about the toddler years, I remember the busyness, the occasional chaos, and that long list of all the things that "only Mommy" could do. Now that the kids are older and more independent, I can look back at those early parenting years with some perspective, and I'd like to share a few suggestions for younger moms.

around Look

Find your people. Even though we will always need people around us who are in different stages of life, we also need mom friends who are going through the same things we are. When you have a baby or a toddler -- or both -- it's sometimes the hardest thing in the world to get out, do stuff, or make plans. Let me encourage you: instead of letting the babies be the reason why you can't get out of the house, find a way to let them be the reason why you do.

Believe it or not, children's activities aren't just about the kids. Many moms find their mom-friend crowd through kids' events. Does your library have a baby storytime? Give it a try. Is there a preschool mom’s group in your community? Find out if you can visit a meeting. Do you have a nearby playground? Pick a day to eat your sandwiches at the park and see if someone with kids wants to join you.

Look In Mirror

Being a mom changes everything -- or does it? Every now and then, be sure to look in the mirror and remember the "you" that you were before having kids. She's still in there. She's got ideas and hobbies, and she's good at so many things. Once in a while, try to carve out a little time to do something you love that's not just a momjob. It can be refreshing and renewing to pick up a forsaken hobby, a good book, or a favorite pastime.

While you're at it, think of one healthy habit you can focus on for yourself. Remembering to drink an extra glass of water daily? Getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine for a couple of minutes? Doing that 15-second plank challenge your friend talked about? It doesn't have to be anything earth-shattering, but it's a little something you can do to take care of you.

outward Look

Make someone smile when you have the chance. Ask for advice from someone you admire. Send a friend a text message just to say, "I'm thinking about you.” Learn something new. Snatch five minutes when the kids are in bed and read a few pages of a good book. Ask a friend (and her kids) if she wants to stop by for a coffee (and animal crackers). Reach out. Say a kind word. You'll be glad you did.

Sometimes, it seems like life is all about the kids. We spend most of our waking hours doing everything for them. And they're worth it! But don't forget that you're worth it, too. It's important to take care of yourself so that you can take care of them.