How to Schedule a Mommy Break

If Mom isn't happy, no one's happy.

Sleep deprived moms everywhere wake up each morning and put every one else's needs above their own. Moms today are busier than ever, and the hectic pace leaves little room for off-duty breaks. Busy moms automatically neglect themselves. They watch over everyone else first, put kids and partners wants above their own. When moms have a moment to devote to themselves, it's often interrupted. Here are 10 ways to schedule a well-earned mommy break.

Instructions

1. Grant Yourself Permission.
   Mommy breaks energize and rejuvenate not only tired minds, but tired spirits. You're not being selfish by taking a break; you're filling your cup to overflowing. When you fill yourself first, you're ready to give to others.

2. Take the "Me Time" Pledge.
   Make this pledge part of your self-care routine: "I promise myself and those I love that I'll take good care of myself." If you're feeling guilty just thinking about "me time," remember that a few cherished hours of "me time" benefits the whole family, because if Mom isn't happy, no one's happy.

3. Ask for Help.
   It's often tough to ask for help. Moms' lives are so much about serving others, that we forget to allow others to nurture and care for us. We need to balance giving with receiving. Allow others to support you. Have the courage to ask for help.

4. Schedule Nights Out.
   It's good for kids to have a break from Mom too. They'll soon appreciate all that you do, plus they have a chance to do things their own way. That's empowering.

5. Arrange for a Day at Home Alone.
   Ask your spouse to take the kids for the day so that you can have the house to yourself. Ah, there's nothing like an uninterrupted day at home.

6. Cultivate Your Talents.
   Whether once a week or once a month, taking a break to cultivate your talents is energizing. Before you were a mommy you were an independent person with many interests. Focus on a creative project. Sing in a choir, take a painting class, read a book.

7. Take a Bath in Candlelight.
   Lock the door, put out a Do Not Disturb sign. Add bubbles. Just because the phone is ringing doesn't mean you have to answer it.

8. Catch Up With Girlfriends.
   Girlfriends help us connect with our womanly persona--after all, you're more than a mommy. Nothing lifts the spirits like a conversation with friends. You can vent, cry and laugh together, and after a visit like that you feel like yourself again.

9. Give to Yourself.
   On the journey of motherhood, it is easy to lose ourselves along the way and inadvertently cut loose our feeling of confidence. What is one thing you'd like to try that you have been denying yourself? Do that. Is there a little treat you'd like to buy? Buy it.

10. Pause
    Take 10 to 30 minutes each day for a moment of silence to honor yourself and all mothers. Mothers are amazing. It is in the silence that we reconnect with our inner small voice and hear the gentle whispers guiding us.