Being a mum is one of the hardest jobs on the planet. However, the job becomes even more difficult when you’re attempting to do it all on your own. This is why so many single mums spend all of their time caring for others and don’t take the time and make the effort to care for themselves.
Many single mums erroneously believe that it’s “selfish” to make time for self-care. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. When you take the time to make sure that you’re feeling and looking your best, you’ll be amazed at how much it improves your capacity to care for other people and their needs.
To help you make the leap and start making self-care a part of your life, here’s a single mum’s guide to risk- and guilt-free pampering.
It’s All About The Little Moments
If you’re trying to raise children on your own while also working or attending school, you might not feel as if you have an hour to spare to do something nice for yourself. Thankfully, doing something nice for yourself doesn’t have to take a long time. There are tiny little things you can do throughout the day that will help you to care for yourself without requiring you to clear your schedule. For example, try a meditation app that will guide you through a short meditation. These little five minute meditations are perfect for the mornings and evenings.
Create a Ritual
When we hear the word “ritual,” we often think of something religious or supernatural. However, a ritual can be anything you do for yourself on a regular basis that will help you to feel and look better. For example, you could start a weekly ritual of attending a Saturday morning yoga class while your kids are at baseball practice. You could also start a nightly ritual of applying your favorite skincare products after your kids have gone to bed for the night. These rituals don’t just help us to improve our appearance, but they give our lives a better sense of order and routine.
Don’t Be Afraid To Occasionally Splurge
It’s noble to want to give your kids all of the time, money and resources that you have. However, you can’t be selfless all of the time. In fact, trying to constantly live your life for other people can be hugely damaging to your mental health. Instead, allow yourself an occasional splurge or allowance. Every few months, treat yourself to a new handbag or a microdermabrasion treatment. These periodic indulgences are essential for your overall happiness.
Single motherhood can be a challenge. Even the most ambitious and responsible single mums occasionally feel like they’re falling behind. Instead of trying to do it all and constantly give everything you have to other people, take the time to care for yourself. Life is too short to not find happiness and to not make the most of the time that you have, regardless of your obligations and responsibilities.
