Motherhood self care 2022 Part 1

Self Care = the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.

As mothers, I think in general we are pretty bad at putting ourselves first, whether that be when taking the time to help our children, their extra-curricular or social commitments or buying things that they need or want. When it come to self-care, at times I feel this is non-existent. I used to think of self-care as getting my nails done every other week or my hair done every other month. But as life has become more demanding, and I’m sure the days have been shortened down to 22 or 20 hours, finding time for myself is even harder.

So for 2022, I’m making ME more of a priority because if I don’t do it, who else will, and if my bucket is empty, how can I fill other’s?

I want doable changes that are for my well-being and happiness. The first one is making sure I drink enough water every day. I’m going to carry my water bottle with me at all times- it can be another shadow. I may as well have four of them now (my actual shadow, my son, the dog and my water bottle)!

The second change I want to make is to stop expecting other people to be as thoughtful as I would ideally like them to be. It’s upsetting when they are not and I overthink it and feel like it is my fault. However, if I don’t expect anything from them, then I’m not disappointed or frustrated by the outcome. I don’t need these negative feelings in my life. I’m going to show gratitude when it is due and surround myself with positive energy.