A few weeks back, a friend of mine named Jenna reached out to tell me about some running pants she no longer needed. We both share a passion for running, and she thought these pricey, eye-catching pants would be perfect for me. I was thrilled when she offered to give them to me at no cost, believing it was a gesture of “good running karma.” When the package arrived a few days later, it felt like an early Christmas gift—something I would never splurge on for myself.
Now, sitting here post-workout in my vibrant new running tights, I feel fantastic. My running stride had a newfound energy this morning, and the flattering fit gave me added confidence as I jogged alongside traffic at 42 years old. Even my husband, who usually doesn’t notice my outfit changes, remarked on how cute I looked as I headed out for my run. Let’s just say, these pants might become my new favorite.
But my tendency to be frugal isn’t confined to just workout gear. Whenever I’m faced with a purchase for myself, I obsessively hunt for the cheapest option, often driving myself nuts in the process. Sometimes, the search for the best deal becomes overwhelming, leading me to abandon the quest altogether. However, when it comes to my friends, kids, or husband, I gladly spend money to make sure they have what they need. Whether it’s an extravagant gift for a friend or that pricey pair of basketball shoes for my daughter, I have no qualms about splurging on them.
Recently, I discussed my reluctance to treat myself with some friends, and they all nodded in agreement, sharing similar struggles with recognizing their own splurge-worthiness. We all know that occasionally tapping into the family budget for a little self-care is acceptable, yet we struggle to actually do it. This led me to ponder the reasons behind our constant self-neglect.
As mothers, we’re conditioned from early on to prioritize others. From breastfeeding, where we monitor our diets for the sake of our babies, to sacrificing sleep during toddler nightmares, we consistently put ourselves last. Our daily decisions often revolve around our families, and that’s simply the expectation placed upon us as moms.
But I call nonsense on that narrative, ladies.
To properly care for our families, we first need to take care of ourselves. It’s essential to acknowledge that we deserve that larger Starbucks coffee or the stylish sandals that make our legs look fabulous. The world won’t end if you invest in those exercise classes you’ve been eyeing or treat yourself to a little shopping spree at your favorite bookstore.
Being a bit selfish is not only acceptable but necessary. We deserve the occasional indulgence, whether it’s a manicure or a soothing massage. Motherhood is challenging, and we shouldn’t have to wait for validation for all the hard work we do daily. Prioritizing ourselves boosts our spirits, making it easier to navigate the chaos of parenting. Plus, when our children see us taking time for ourselves, they learn that the universe doesn’t revolve solely around them—most of the time.
So, go ahead and pamper yourself! It doesn’t always have to be a financial splurge. Take 20 minutes to relax before the kids come home; the laundry can wait. Spend a few extra moments chatting with a friend after a PTA meeting; your child won’t mind a slight delay in picking them up. Pause and ask your partner for a kiss in the kitchen; your dinner will be just fine. Skip the family movie night and enjoy a hot bath instead before taking a quick nap. Make self-care a daily practice, reminding yourself of the amazing mom you are. Celebrate your awesomeness; it’s okay to have that little shopping spree at Target—no judgment here.
If you need me, I’ll be lounging on the couch, admiring my new running pants and catching up on my favorite shows while sipping on my Venti Starbucks coffee. When the kids return home to a refreshed and smiling mom, that’s a win for the entire family.
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Summary
Moms often struggle with self-care, prioritizing family over themselves. This article emphasizes the importance of recognizing our worth and allowing ourselves to indulge occasionally. It’s essential to balance self-care with family responsibilities, as it not only benefits us but teaches our children valuable lessons about self-worth.