Doing things for yourself

Motherhood can be synonymous with guilt.

We feel guilty for doing things for ourselves, when we fail to do regular household tasks like laundry or make dinner or when we are not home to kiss our children good night. The reality is this guilt is mainly self imposed. If I have learned one lesson in my life it is best to put your head down, not be deterred by the naysayers and live the life you want. There will always be people who judge you for how much or how little time you spend alone, with your children, your spouse and with your friends. Over the past couple of years, I have learned it is important for me to maintain a sense of self. I need to make time for the things which make my heart sing other than my offspring or spouse. However, I am sure some of you are sleep deprived, overwhelmed and not even sure what exactly that might be. 

And so I ask you a simple question: If you had a spare hour or two to yourself what would you do? Walk aimlessly around Target? Go on a walk? Catch up on the latest season of your favorite show? Go on a hike? Call a friend? Take a nap? Workout? Make a meal? Finish a project you started long ago? For those of you who know me, you know I find it important to be fit and healthy. For me, I will consistently choose working out above everything else. If I have a little extra time hopefully I get a shower and then some work done. Taking care of myself is even more paramount now that I have a child who depends on me. 

And so I challenge all of you to regularly do something for yourself either big or small. It will change your life and your perspective on yourself. I promise.