Moms, It’s Time To Practice What We Preach

Moms, can we have a chat? It’s time to practice what we preach.

It’s time to take control of our lives and find the time to do things YOU want to do. We spend most of our waking hours catering to others, worrying about how we will get everything on our to-do list complete. But in the chaos of life, we often forget about ourselves.

It’s time to stop. It’s time to find that balance between helping those you love, but also loving yourself.

I’ve always been a “people pleaser”. And for years, I would say “yes” to everything in front of me. But here’s the thing—when we’re busy pleasing others, we end up stressed out. And that often leads to restless nights, worrying about everything on our plate. I don’t know about you, but my first world problems seem so much more important at 3am!

When I don’t sleep, I get cranky. And that crankiness leads to me being snippy with everyone in my path, including my daughter. It’s not her fault we’re running late for school, but the tone of my voice would make you think otherwise.

This smiling woman in the picture, sporting remnants of make up she slept in–is truly happy in life. I’m going to let you in on a secret that took me years to realize: It’s OK to say enough is enough.

Who cares if you end up buying store bought cupcakes for your son’s party? I guarantee my child won’t notice the difference.

What happens if you push back the grocery store errand for a day? We always have leftovers lurking in the freezer.

In recent months, I have embraced this new way of life, often making time to go to the gym, meet friends for coffee and do things that I enjoy. I don’t beat myself up if my list of chores isn’t finished. I feel no shame if I set my child in front of the TV just so I can have some peace and quiet.

And today? I went for a massage, took a nap and spent a good hour scrolling through Facebook, all before heading into work. There are probably dishes left in the sink, but my husband doesn’t mind. He knows that I need to put my self care and happiness first.

After being in a slump for months, I took a good look in the mirror and chose to put myself first. I often talk to my daughter about confidence and embracing who you are. But, I can’t lead by example if I’m not practicing what I preach.

So, take a note from my handbook. That pile of laundry can wait. It’s time to put YOU first and do things because it’s what YOU want to do, not what others expect of you.

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