It happens. If you’re not careful, life will catch you slipping. Before you know it, you’ll be “that” mom. The mom you said you’d never be. For me, I didn’t want to fall into a rut. It’s been my thing since I became a mom. I made it a point to keep my identity. While I was working outside of the home, that was easier. I’m a fashion lover. I loved getting dressed. The whole process of putting a look together, switching up my hair a bit and finding the perfect accessories was part of my morning routine. I held on to that for some time after becoming a SAHM. It’s definitely been more of a challenge though.
It seems that with each new life transition it gets a little harder to take care of me. As a working mom, it seemed easier for me to spend a little time on myself. It seemed easier to schedule some time for myself. My days look really different now. I work at my computer, alternating between my sofa and my bed. (One day, I’ll show my work space some love) The changes in my life have been reflected in my wardrobe, in my hair, in my (ahem) waistline. I’m making some changes around here. I’ll be sharing them with you.
One big (albeit temporary) change I just made is with my hair. I had been going back and forth from my natural curls to straight. I was bored. I wasn’t feeling like myself anymore. I know enough about myself to know that how I feel on the inside will reflect on the outside. How I look definitely has an impact on me. If I put some effort into me, I feel better. It carries over into my day.
So, I made a simple change. I got a head full of braids. It’s new for me. It’s fun and it’s a change. Sometimes a small change is all we need to set other, bigger changes in motion. This was my way of paying attention to myself. My way of acknowledging my tank was getting low and I needed a bit of self care to replenish myself. The way I was carrying myself and not doing for myself was because I was busy doing for my family. Am I alone here?
Because I know how hard it can be for mamas to take time for ourselves, I’m kicking off a challenge today. It’s the Mama Survival challenge! I’m excited about it! It’s a 5 day challenge with daily challenges and inspiration to jump start a self care journey. I’ve heard from so many moms who need to eek out time for themselves. I created this with us in mind.
While I am all about finding passions and pursuing dreams, I know the core of that is self care. It’s hard to run for your dreams or even feel worthy of them without self care. Ready to join me? Click here. Or to find out more about the challenge, go here.
Tell me, how do you keep your self-care tank from going empty?
64 Comments on Who Else Could Use Self Care?
Leave a Reply
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
I get it! I think I’m getting better at self-care, but after 4 days of migraines my dr prescribed weekly massages this morning! Oh yeah, this mama can get on board with that! (Love the braids!)
You are adorable – I love the braids. Sometimes it’s fun just to do something a little different. It brings something new and fresh to the table.
Very Nice!! Good for you for making your life a little easier. You look great in the braids. Not everyone does, you know. Some of us look downright silly.
Terry recently posted…Fresh n Lean ~ Delicious And Healthy Meal Service
She does look good in those braids. I think they’re great!
Melissa Pezza recently posted…Why Yes..I got to interview the AMAZING Brad Bird and Damon Lindelof! #TomorrowlandEvent
You’ve got to take care of yourself! If you don’t, you’ll go crazy!
Melissa Pezza recently posted…We Visited the Disney Archives! What an Incredible Experience! #TomorrowlandEvent
I’m really terrible when it comes to self-care. I know I should make time for myself, but I have so much to do!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle recently posted…Snack Smarter with Nature Valley® Protein Crunchy Granola #NVGranola
This some straight to me! I have been trying myself i have got to do better. The more life hands me, the less effort i out into myself which had a downward effect on everything! Time for change!
Bijee recently posted…Say Hello…
I love this topic! This is a huge thing for me and for many of my clients. One thing I do (and teach them to do) is I work in my Daily Luxe practices. Daily Luxe is when you take something you already had to do that day anyway (e.g. bathing) and give it an inexpensive and luxurious upgrade (e.g. BUBBLES!). I feel better when I take time to do nice things for myself.
Carisa Montooth recently posted…Love Tips Series #5: Getting Your Partner to Support Your Business
I have to admit that I’m a selfish person however, I do firmly believe that a happy mom is a good mom 😉
lisa @bitesforbabies recently posted…15 Delicious Ways to Eat Avocados
I’m so behind on my self care. I could so use some more! I always put everyone ahead of myself. I’m happy, but could use some more me time!
You and me both. I never take enough time for myself.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle recently posted…Snack Smarter with Nature Valley® Protein Crunchy Granola #NVGranola
I really love the braids! I am terrible about self care. I did recently get my hair dyed but I know it could use a new look!
lisa recently posted…I scream, you scream, we all scream for Weight Watchers® ice cream
Go you! You look beautiful. Sadly however their are days when I am up blogging til the wee hours of the morning and to be honest yoga pants a tank top and a little lipstick ( I’m Italian) It’s engrained in me haha. I might have to join the self care challenge 🙂
Laura H recently posted…Ripleyâs Eight Unique Attractions Family Deal @usfg #gatlinburg #ripleys
Those braids look good on you! I like to switch things up, but I rarely change my hair. I need to mix it up a bit.
Alli recently posted…Best Places to Get Married in Las Vegas
Getting my nails done regularly is part of my self care. I try to take that time for myself because if I am not at my best, I can’t be my best for my family.
Paula Schuck recently posted…20 Great Gluten Free Muffin Recipes (Roundup)
What an amazing quote! I totally agree that it should not be a luxury, such a thing is something every person should have available.
I was a single parent for the first nine years of my daughter’s life! It wasn’t easy, and I certainly understand your plight! Finding time for yourself is tough, but you just have to in order to feel good about yourself!
Dawn McAlexander recently posted…Win 1 Of 3 Pieces Of Walker Edison Furniture {US Ends 6/7} #sponsored
4 years into mommy hood, I’m finding how important it is to make time for yourself. Great post. #BMBC
Kim recently posted…Outdoor Fun Activities for the Whole Family
Your hair looks amazing. I love the braids. It looks really good on you. I like to treat myself to a massage whenever i can.
I can only imagine how hard it is to maintain who you are as you raise kids! I love your new braids they look great!!
Tammileetips recently posted…Beauty and the Beast Topiary at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
Self-care is so important, I am not a mummy yet but I think that if you care for yourself first you will give your family your best as well because you’re happy so are they.
Myrabev recently posted…{SPONSORED} Anjolee ~ The Art of Jewellry
I love your braids – they look amazing on you!
I’m guilty of not taking care of myself really ever now that I have a son. He takes up so much time its hard to get any for myself!
Your braids look fab on you, I always wanted some when I was younger. I am totally guilty of not taking care of myself, eating right, etc. I am always too concerned with my little boy but he needs a happy, healthy mama too.
It can be so hard sometimes to find some time to just take care of myself. Lately though, I’ve been trying to make the time because after all if I don’t take care of myself, no one will! As a mom, sometimes it’s hard to let go of feeling guilty for taking a little time for yourself.
Michelle @ Dishes and Dust Bunnies recently posted…Homemade Chunky Guacamole
Creating a way for moms to deliberately do some self care is thoughtful. It’s definitely useful too.
Yes, I believe in change. Doing things for myself instead of others makes me feel good. I so need my hair done. Your braids came out great!
I totally agree! You have to make sure you take care of yourself too. Thanks for the reminder, I’m going to make that small change tomorrow.
Tamika recently posted…7 Real Reasons Why You Need to Join Avon
I agree, a simple change is what we need from time to time. Your hair looks great!
Chubskulit Rose recently posted…Cold Temperature Once again Tonight
Your very pretty. =) I have 5 kiddos and I don’t really get much self care. I’m the type that just throws my hair in a ponytail, grab easy clothes to throw on and that is my daily routine. I know I really should spend some more time on me but eventually I will get there.
I can totally use it. It’s important to remember to take time for us.
I know I don’t take care of myself enough life just seems to get in the way. I think it is time I pamper myself a little.
I’m definitely in need of some self-care. I don’t do it often enough and think that I am a better mommy when I make it a priority!
Jennifer Stewart recently posted…Salted Caramel Nutella Cheesecake Shooters
It is important to take care of yourself, otherwise you cannot take care of the others. My nails could use some extra care
DogVills recently posted…What are The Basic Types of Hypoallergenic Dog Food?
Ooh yes, I know about this all too well! That’s just what mamas do. We take care of everyone else, but it’s important that we make some time for us!
Stacie recently posted…Summer Scarves & Accesories
You’re braids look so good! I wouldn’t mind making a few style changes to kick start my self care.
Liz Mays recently posted…I’m Addicted to Crime Shows on Netflix #StreamTeam
Amen to this post! I really am bad about staying on top of my self care, but I will get better!
I am a HUGE fan of mommy me time. It’s so important that we take time for ourselves to do something for us! Your hair looks so cute! I wanna get my hair braided as well. This weekend I’m going to spend the day at the spa. I cannot wait!
val recently posted…THE MRS MOTHERS DAY EVENT HOSTED BY JENNY MCCARTHY BENEFITING DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Good for you. I need to work at taking care of myself too.
I have let things slip since I began working from home, and even more when I became a mom. I try to make some time for myself with pedicures every 2 weeks!
Kecia recently posted…A Closer Look at Tomorrowland with Brad Bird & Damon Lindelof #TomorrowlandEvent
I absolutely love the braids on you. Glad you are taking care of you.
Candy O recently posted…Dr. David Brothers Answers Questions About Mommy Makeovers
You look fabulous! I try to take a few minutes every day to take care of myself. It can be challenging when there’s a never ending to-do list.
Crystal recently posted…Disneyland or Disney World?
I keep my self-care tank from going empty by making date night a priority each week and giving myself a few kid-free hours each week to do whatever I want to do.
Your hair looks fabulous! I take care of myself by staying active, whether it’s going for a hike or going to the gym.
HilLesha recently posted…How to Reduce Indoor Allergens
As a grandmother, I do little to change my appearance from day to day. Maybe I should indulge myself. Great post.
When I was a young Mom (my son is grown now) time was short as my husband and I worked partially opposite work shifts. O many times, when I was the “Mommy” I was also alone. My escape was crocheting. I also made sure I looked good.
Alana recently posted…How to Save $220
I really needed to read this today. Much of my work done is very messy–chicken care, gardening, farm work–but I could take another minute or two to look nice, at that. You, by the way, are adorable with your new braids!
Amy recently posted…search terms that brought you to me (hehee)
This post really speaks to me! Self care is so important but I never make enough time to do it.
I really make an effort to make time for myself. Tomorrow is a rare thing for me but I am getting a massage.. of course I wish it was today but tomorrow will come soon. Love the braids by the way! A great look for you.
You look refreshing in braids.
Twice per year I take a Momcation for the weekend. I leave our son with my husband and I get in the car with my clothes, money, tablet, phone and go to a hotel. I make sure that I book a spa appointment for the works. I also relax and read. I don’t want calls unless someone is hurt. I also get my hair done. My braider also makes house calls. Every three weeks are my mani/pedi/brows. If mama isn’t well, no one else will be either.
I love the braids, they are gorgeous. I use my hair as a my boost or mood change too. Last week I shaved the side. Off. no hair. and I love it
Melinda@LookWhatMomFound…andDadtoo recently posted…Birthday Ideas for Your Daughter
It is very hard to forget yourself – thanks for the tips and I’m heading to checkout the challenge now 😀
Velaundra{at}Velsworld.com recently posted…QUIZ- What do your Earrings say about you?
I need some self care. My tank is empty.
Beth@FrugalFroggie recently posted…Create for Less Rainbow Sale
I’m still learning to care about myself sometimes too, love the hairstyle!
Sabrina @ Dinner, then Dessert recently posted…Yukon Gold and Green Onion Potato Salad with Bacon Vinaigrette
Great piece and gorgeous braids. As a mom of two.. I am now more aware of self care. I felt guilty at first but having my husband encourage it and take over has done wonders. Knowing everything will be okay if i step back, makes me feel good.
I love photography, so just going on a walk with my camera is suffice 🙂
Chile…yes, I’m all about that Mama Survival life LOL I learned the hard way that self-care is detrimental to our overall health. I love challenges!
Christine @MomsNCharge recently posted…4 Fun And Festive Memorial Day Activities For the Family
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about this because it’s so easy to become “that mom” The braids was a great idea, you look good and they are low maintenance.
Adanna recently posted…Making Happy Family Fruit and Veggie Pouches
First! I love the braids on you! I used to get them all of the time but now I just don’t think I can sit still that long and then taking them down OMG! I once spent 12 hours doing that WITH help from my mom. But it’s nothing like new braids to make you feel ultra fab!
I love your hair!! It’s so easy to forget about ourselves when we have a family to care for. I love how you’re being intentional with doing something just for YOU so you don’t lose your self of identity.
Yes, I can definitely relate to this. Your hair looks amazing too btw!
Marina John recently posted…Your Vote Can Change A Community. (#SFNeighborhoodAssist)
Yes, I agree. Sometimes we all need to take some time for ourselves! Your hair looks awesome!
Amy @ Marvelous Mommy recently posted…Project 52 | Week #20 – Nature
I do things for me – read relax take it easy. It is a must – keeps me going!
Debbie L. recently posted…#RushToBrush Contest!
Self care is something I’m trying to teach my wife – she will do and do for everyone else and let herself fall apart. She’s learning that if she doesn’t take care of herself, she can’t take care of others.
Gabriel recently posted…Peach Jar Cakes and Creative Blog Hop
You look amazing! I am glad you focus on self care, I think it is very important to keep up with our own self so that we can be our best individual possible to ourselves and others. Fabulous post to share!
Brandy recently posted…Walmart Huggies® Wipes Help Keep Things Clean #sp #TripleClean @Huggies @Walmart