How to Make Time for Yourself as a Busy Mom

Being a mom is a full-time job, and it often feels like there aren't enough hours in the day to get everything done. Between taking care of the kids, managing the household, and possibly working outside the home, finding time for yourself can seem impossible. However, self-care is crucial for your well-being and can help you be a better mom. Here are some tips on how to carve out some "me time" in your busy schedule. 

1. Prioritize Self-Care

The first step in making time for yourself is to prioritize it. Understand that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity. When you are well-rested and happy, you can take better care of your family. Schedule self-care activities just like you would any other important appointment. I like to put notes on my bathroom mirror as little reminders to myself that it’s ok to prioritize self-care. Friendly quotes such as “Self-love is not selfish; you cannot truly love another until you know how to love yourself."  These are helpful AND TRUE affirmations.  Create your own that speak to you – the sky is the limit!

2. Create a Routine

You know your schedule better than anyone.  I recommend writing it down and see where there are 30-40 minutes that you can carve out time for yourself.  Although having a daily routine can help you manage your time more effectively, I understand better than anyone, that’s not always possible with rotating sports practices 3 days a week, that PTO meeting or event that’s happening on that one Wednesday next week – I get it.  Remember do the BEST you can. If you can, set specific times for household chores, work, and family activities. Include a slot for self-care in your routine. Whether it's a 15-minute meditation session in the morning or a relaxing bath in the evening, having a set time for yourself can make a big difference.

3. Delegate Tasks

You don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to your partner, older children, or even hire help if possible. Sharing the workload can free up some time for you to focus on yourself. Remember, it's okay to ask for help.  I personally utilize this tip a lot as my teenage daughter is very capable and it instills responsibility in her by allowing her to take care of some of the housework – mainly the dishes and laundry!  It also helps her learn how to develop work ethic, which is something I know is very lacking in her generation.  I also have an agreement with my husband who is usually fulfilling a coaching commitment, that when he has a day off from practice, (usually Tuesdays) he is on the hook to plan and execute dinner.  This is one way I have been able to set aside one evening for myself.

4. Use Naptime Wisely

If you have young children who still take naps (ah those were the days!), use this time to do something for yourself. Instead of catching up on chores, take a break. Read a book, watch your favorite show, bust out a 30-minute workout, or simply relax. This is your time to recharge.

5. Involve Your Kids

Sometimes, the best way to get some "me time" is to involve your kids in activities that you enjoy. If you like yoga, find a kid-friendly yoga video and do it together. If you enjoy cooking, let your kids help you in the kitchen. This way, you can spend quality time with your kids while doing something you love.  My family and I have a dog – Hartley. And due to our crazy schedule, she is often neglected so I like two-fers whenever I possibly can get them.  Therefore, when we need to walk her, I need to exercise AND want to spend time together, (I guess this is a three-fer!) then I gather up my two reluctant children and our anxious, under walked dog and hit the sidewalk to cruise around the neighborhood. My son chooses the route while my daughter fills me in on the tea happening in her life.

6. Set Boundaries

While I love the two-fer or three-fers above, sometimes, “me time” requires total solitude and combining the family time with the things we love, turns out to be less enjoyable as originally planned.  Therefore, it's important to set boundaries with your family. Let them know that you need some time for yourself and that it's important for your well-being. Teach your kids to respect your "me time" and explain that you will be a better mom when you have time to relax, recharge or complete a workout without interruptions.

7. Take Advantage of Early Mornings or Late Nights

If your schedule allows, wake up a little earlier or stay up a bit later to have some quiet time for yourself. Use this time to do something you enjoy, whether it's reading, journaling, or exercising. The quiet hours of the morning or night can be the perfect time to focus on yourself.  If you are not a morning person, like me, it makes things a bit more challenging.  I find that I am a night owl. I always have been so if you are likely to stay up late, then waking up early is not really an option.  I try to get my son to bed a bit earlier so that I have that time in the evening to myself or simply to spend some one-on-one time with my husband since we don’t see each other all day. However, if you are a total morning person, outline what your goals are for the morning, the night before, so that you are prepared on what you want to get done before the kiddos wake up.

8. Join a Support Group

I am not a huge fan of the term “support group” but if you have a group of moms that are all in the same boat – struggling to make time for themselves and need some encouragement, accountability and support – setting up time with them a couple times a week can be incredibly helpful. Join a local or online group where you can share experiences, tips, and advice. Sometimes, just talking to someone who gets it can be a form of self-care. Amen sister!

9. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce stress. Take a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or simply paying attention to your surroundings. This can help you feel more centered and calmer.  There are great podcasts on Spotify that you can find for mindfulness and meditation.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Lastly, remember to be kind to yourself. It's okay if you can't do everything perfectly. Give yourself grace and understand that taking care of yourself is an ongoing process. Celebrate the small victories and when plans fall through, try again the next day.  Making time for yourself as a busy mom is challenging, but it's essential for your well-being.

By prioritizing self-care, creating a routine, delegating tasks, and setting boundaries, you can find ways to carve out some "me time" in your busy schedule. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish—it's necessary. You deserve it!