Parent Magazine Flagler May 2022 | Page 22

on occasion . Giving yourself permission to treat yourself can boost your mood and acknowledge that you work hard and deserve something special . You don ’ t have to spend a lot of time or money ; it ’ s more about putting yourself first on occasion .
Talk to someone
Sometimes we just need someone to talk to about our feelings , what is going on in our lives , and the details of everyday life . One way moms make themselves a priority is to find a friend or family member they can chat with on a regular basis . Some may find it helpful to talk to a counselor if they have a lot to work through and have dealt with depression or feel like they could use some unbiased advice .
Ask for help
Moms are used to helping others and many of us have a hard time reaching out and asking for help . However , when a friend asks , we are the first to offer assistance . Give others a chance to help you . Set up a carpool so you are not always the one playing taxi with the kids for their after-school activities , accept help when offered , or trade babysitting with a friend so you can have a muchneeded date night . If your significant other offers to help out around the house , let them , even if it isn ’ t exactly the way you would have done it . Accepting help can be a big relief and can give moms the chance for some muchneeded time to focus on themselves .
Take up a hobby
What do you love to do ? Many moms find they have forgotten the hobbies they used to enjoy prior to kids . Make time for yourself and your interests . Seek out an old hobby or find a new one - reading , running , sewing , scrapbooking - whatever activity gets you excited is what you need to make time for . Whether you do your hobby with a group of friends or on your own , you will not regret making time for something that is important to you .
It ’ s not possible to put yourself first all the time when you are a busy mom , but that doesn ’ t mean you shouldn ’ t set aside time when you are the priority . It ’ s important for your mental and physical health and well-being and will make you a better mom overall .
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