Last night I determined to wake up a bit early today to feed my spirit and start the day motivated and encouraged. So, I dutifully got up from my nice, cozy soft bed and headed toward my cold, dark kitchen. My first thought was to do a load of laundry or something. But I didn’t. This was time for my own replenishment and self-care. I wasn't going to deviate from the plan.
The only problem is that I am a morning hater! I'm known for thinking anyone who is up before seven o'clock is nuts! However, I must admit that I noticed something tranquil about the early morning. But I'm still not completely convinced that this "early bird" thing is for me. Time will tell.
While in the kitchen, I turned on the lights and groggily made a cup of peppermint tea. Hoping the pungent flavor of pepperment would give me a burst of energy and wake me up. Still somewhat sleep, I spent the time in prayer and mediation as I had planned. I was very drowsy and can't say that I remember much of what I read or journaled, but it was nice to have some time for myself before the madness of another busy day began to settle in.
It's critical to make time for yourself whether you’re a working mom, a married mom, or a single mom. As a matter of fact, I think the latter mentioned needs this quiet time the most.
As a single mom, you are incredibly busy giving out and distributing your resources to others. As a result, it is easy to forget the simple principle of self care- making time for you. Think about it, car that has a gas gauge on empty is of little use to anyone. The same goes for you.
Whether your "you" time is in the morning, evening or during the lunch hour, make some time to spend on yourself. Do not allow yourself to feel guilty about it. As a single mom, my time was clearly during the evening (I guess you figured out that I am not a morning person by nature). As a matter of fact, after Ben (my son) went to sleep, I would stay up to do something I enjoyed. I would paint my toe nails, read or guiltlessly peruse a fashion website or I did whatever else I thoroughly enjoyed. Remember, it's not about the quantity of time, but the frequency that matters.
Point: Regularly make more time for yourself so that you can be an effective, relaxed and well-balanced mom. Do it for your kids, do it for yourself.
No comments:
Post a Comment