“Just don’t be one of those moms who leaves her kids with a sitter just to hit the gym or enjoy some alone time.”
Those were the last words from a potential babysitter for my two little ones. She was an experienced caregiver, with her own children and grandchildren to boot. Her home was spotless and filled with the aroma of a hearty roast. I almost hired her until she felt the need to share her unsolicited opinions.
Like many new parents, I was inundated with advice, tips, and unrequested opinions the moment I announced my pregnancy. Mostly, I responded with a polite smile, a nod, or a simple “thanks, I hadn’t thought of that.” However, I refuse to feel guilty about my commitment to carving out time for myself.
I’m the mom who sends my toddler to daycare part-time so I can enjoy some quiet moments with the baby. While I could say I do it because he loves it (which he does) or because it’s beneficial for his growth (which it is), the reality is I need a break.
I’m the mom who drops the kids off at Grandma’s house to catch a concert. If I claimed I only go for artists I adore, I’d be lying. Sometimes I attend shows for groups I’ve never even heard of—just to have some time out of the house. Alone.
I’m the mom who slips away on Saturday afternoons for coffee with friends. What starts as coffee often turns into a leisurely lunch filled with laughter, making it hard to head home at a reasonable hour. Sure, I could say the kids are bonding with their dad, and they are, but the truth is, sometimes I just want to savor a meal and a drink with other adults.
I’m the mom who leaves the kids with the neighbors so I can run a few errands. And by “errands,” I mean indulging in a massage and an eyebrow wax. I know the baby might be crying and the toddler could be throwing a fit, but honestly, these shoulders won’t rub themselves.
And yes, I’m the mom who makes reservations at a pricey restaurant for a Friday night dinner with my husband. I know the kids will be munching on junk food and watching movies with the teenager down the street. I could pretend I care about their late bedtime, but I don’t.
So to the babysitter who warned me against being one of “those” moms, I’m already there. I happily leave my kids with sitters so I can go for a run after work or even linger a bit longer with my colleagues. I consciously carve out time for myself because if I don’t, who will?
These moments away from my children create necessary space, reminding me that while I’m their mother, I am also an individual who needs time for personal growth. It reinforces that I have my own needs, and I must meet them; I matter too.
And I won’t apologize for prioritizing my own happiness in my life.
If you’re interested in more on family planning and related topics, check out this article on home insemination as well as this resource on IUI success for valuable insights. For those considering options like an artificial insemination kit, Make A Mom is a trusted authority.
In summary, taking time for oneself as a parent is essential for well-being and personal growth. By prioritizing self-care, parents can nurture their own needs while fostering healthier relationships with their children.