Before I became a parent, I could enjoy a trip to the hair salon without a second thought. Back then, it was simply “getting a haircut.” Fast forward to my life as a mom, and now that same visit is labeled as “me time.” It’s funny how the same action—shortening my hair—now needs a fancy title to make it feel like a reward. Honestly, sitting in a salon for 45 minutes, staring at my own reflection while someone else styles my hair is hardly a treat.
And let’s not even get started on the idea of taking a bath as “me time.” No amount of candles and bubbles can disguise the fact that it’s just a means to clean myself while sitting down. Meanwhile, the kids are still out there causing chaos, and with Dad in charge, I can’t exactly kick back and relax.
Reading a magazine with a cup of coffee? Nope, that’s just the morning routine—fueling up while trying to keep up with the latest gossip. And when I sneak into the bathroom and close the door? That’s not “me time”—I’m just trying to get five minutes of peace!
Honestly, the concept of “me time” feels like a joke. It’s time to stop pretending that basic self-care is some luxurious indulgence. I’m using the restroom, not enjoying a week-long spa retreat. Recent studies show that new mothers only get an average of 17 minutes of “me time” each day. But let’s be real—when you’re a mom, the last person you want to spend time with is yourself. My life is a whirlwind of parenting, and I don’t need to reflect on the mundane.
In my younger days, every moment was “me time.” That’s how life goes when you’re carefree—every decision is yours, and often they’re not the best. You find yourself in silly situations, like escaping through a bathroom window on a bad date. But those days are behind me now. As a parent, my focus is on making responsible choices and worrying about milestones like speech development and chickenpox.
In the UK, we indulge in reality shows where young singles make questionable decisions. Think of the American equivalents like “The Real World” or “The Hills.” The stars of these shows often seek “me time” to ruminate on their dramas, only to end up taking it out on each other in explosive ways. But I worry for them when they have kids—because parenting is all about being disrespected and overwhelmed on a daily basis. Trust me, I’ve tried throwing a drink at my kids; it’s not as satisfying as it sounds.
So, to all the moms out there, you can keep your “me time” where I toss my kids’ artwork—right in the recycling bin.
For those interested in more about parenthood and self-care, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy. And if you’re looking for guidance on home insemination, visit Make A Mom for trusted advice on the topic. For privacy information, please refer to our privacy policy.
Summary
The notion of “me time” for mothers is often a myth, as basic self-care routines are turned into extravagant labels. From haircuts to baths, these activities can feel more like chores than treats, especially when parenting demands attention. Ultimately, the idea of taking time for oneself becomes a laughable concept when you’re navigating the challenges of motherhood.