You will need 30 seconds. That’s all. Use in order, or
turn to a random page. Each page has a title, a benefit,
and simple directions. Read it and do exactly what it
says. Or, if you know that you are in the mood for a
creative, emotionally uplifting, physical, or spiritually-
oriented task, use the Index at the back of the book to
choose one that fits your interest. Notice the benefits you
experience because you took that 30 seconds just for
you. Yes, you deserve it. And yes, there is more to life
than just being that caregiver, and maybe also partner,
business owner, student, staff member, woman, sister,
and friend…all of the roles we play. Because, no matter
what, if we are not feeling worthy, balanced, and okay,
we really can’t manage any of our other roles well, can
we? So, take that 30 seconds. And use it for YOU. The
benefits will last far longer than 30 seconds.
They might just become a wonderful little daily ritual. But, start with 30 seconds. Enjoy. This
is your time. By the way, the writing tasks have a blank page beside them for jotting your
notes. So, all you need for those is a pen. If there isn’t a pen nearby, use a pencil. Or, a
broken crayon. We moms have lots of those around. Or, use a partially dried-up marker,
eyebrow pencil, or lip liner if that’s what’s handy. It’s ok – write in the book. Later, reading
what you wrote will be part of your reflective process, showing you how you’ve grown. Feel
good about this 30 second you-time. It’s an accomplishment for busy moms to take even that
much for yourself. You’ll find yourself becoming more present, more patient, more loving,
and happier if you do this regularly. People might even notice, and comment about the
positive changes in you. But it isn’t about what they think. It’s about how you feel. Basically,
we’re frazzled people who are loaded down with an unreasonable amount of responsibility
for raising little beings to hopefully be kind and productive members of society without too
much emotional baggage, while maintaining the house, our work, the kids’ extracurricular
and social plans, and also being a present, loving, and emotionally supportive partner, who’s
able to maintain friendships and relate to our parents, sisters, and anyone else who is vying
for our attention. Take a 30 second Moment for Mom. It’s your turn.