(Written September 11, 2019
I had a hard time taking time out for myself, that is until the day came when I was so exhausted and overwhelmed that I shut down. I didn’t answer the phone when it rang (not even when my momma called – and boy did she chew me out). I didn’t respond to any texts and if I did it was a one word response. Needless to say, I was DONE!
After I finally talked to my mom, she came to Pennsylvania, picked my children up for the weekend and guess what I did while they were gone…ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. My house was soooooo quiet, I didn’t sleep like I thought I would have BUT I was grateful that I had time to relax, pray, cry, and pray some more.
I know that we have a lot to do for our little ones and that in most cases, everything falls on us but even it it’s for just an hour, take some time out for yourself.
First things first! Realize that it is absolutely okay to be exhausted and overwhelmed. Most of you work full time, may be enrolled in school and/or your children may be involved in extra curricular activities around the community. I was doing all three!
Put them children to bed early so that you can catch up on your shows. Ask somebody to watch your children so you can go get them nails and feet done (you probably need it lol). Let them children go outside and play for a little while so you can get some good quiet time in and maybe even prayer time in with God. Put that leave slip in and spend the day shopping while your children are at school and THIS TIME SPEND SOME MONEY ON YOURSELF, without feeling guilty.
Self-care is important. As hard as it may be, it’s important to take time out for yourself. Whether you lock yourself in your bedroom, sit by the water (that is sooooo relaxing and calming by the way), go for a walk, read a book, get a mani and/or pedi, or whatever it is that you’re able to do, just make sure that you take the time out to actually do it.
After all, how can you be a help to your children if you don’t first take care of yourself?
