Self-Care is Not a Luxury, It’s a Necessity

As a parent and an adult, you often feel the constant pressure to take care of everything for everyone. The household, work, school tasks, appointments... The list seems endless. But where do you stand on that list?

Many parents, especially mothers, struggle to take time for themselves. It feels like failing if you prioritize your own needs. But here’s the thing: self-care is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.

In this blog, I’ll explain why self-care is essential for you and your family. Because when you take care of yourself, you’re in a much better position to care for others.

Why Is Self-Care So Difficult?

It’s not uncommon for parents to find it challenging to incorporate self-care into their daily routines. Common reasons include:

1. Guilt: Feeling selfish for taking time for yourself.

2. Too many responsibilities: Everything else feels more important than your own needs.

3. Lack of support: You might feel alone in your responsibilities.

But ask yourself this: how can you keep giving if your energy is depleted?

Put on Your Oxygen Mask First

Have you ever noticed that when you’re on an airplane, they tell you to put your oxygen mask on first before helping others — even your children? This is because you can’t help anyone if you’re struggling to breathe yourself. The same is true for your emotional and mental health. If you’re constantly running on empty, you won’t be able to give your best to your children or handle the your demands.

The Consequences of Neglecting Self-Care

When you don’t take time for yourself, it doesn’t just affect you—it impacts your entire family:

• Burnout: Without rest and recovery, you’ll run out of energy.

• Reduced patience: You’re more likely to feel irritated, which can lead to tension at home.

• No role model: Your children learn from your behavior. If you don’t value yourself, how will they learn to do so?

  
  

Self-care is not just about you; it’s also about teaching your children the importance of balance, boundaries, and self-respect.

Self-Care: What It Is and What It’s Not

Self-care is often misunderstood. Let’s clarify:

• What it is: Taking time to support your mental, emotional, and physical health. This can range from exercising and eating well to spending time with friends or pursuing a hobby.

• What it’s not: Selfishness or luxury. It’s not “extra” or “optional”; it’s essential.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean neglecting your family; it means ensuring you’re better equipped to be there for them.

Image from Milko

5 Tips to Make Self-Care a Priority

Want to carve out more time for yourself but don’t know where to start? Here are some practical tips:

1. Schedule it in your calendar.

   Just like work meetings, block time in your day for yourself. Even 15 minutes a day can make a difference.

   
   

2. Ask for help.

   It’s okay to ask your partner, family, or friends for support. No one has to do it all alone.

   
   

3. Say ‘no’ to extra obligations.

   You don’t have to say ‘yes’ to everything. Protect your time and energy.

   
   

4. Teach your children independence.

   By teaching your kids to handle small tasks on their own, you free up some breathing space for yourself.

   
   

5. Create a list of what energises you.

   Whether it’s reading, walking, or enjoying a quiet cup of tea — discover what helps you recharge and make room for it.

Self-Care is an Investment

When you take time for self-care, you’re investing in yourself and your family. A well-rested, happy parent is better equipped to handle the challenges of parenting and sets a powerful example for children.

What do you do to take time for yourself? Share your tips and experiences in the comments — I’d love to hear from you!

P.S.: Would you like to learn more about how to balance self-care and parenting? Contact me for a free introductory session. Together, we’ll find ways to help you regain energy and joy in your daily life.