Attention All Working Mothers: Self-Care Is Not Selfish!

Self-care is a critical part of living a fulfilled and happy life as a working mom! Unfortunately, however, most working moms often put everyone and everything else before their own needs and allow themselves to fall last on the list of priorities. In order for career-minded mama’s to successfully handle life's trials and tribulations, while being available and present to those they love, it is imperative that they make time for self-care. There is a reason that flight attendants state the following prior to take-off, “In case of a loss in air cabin pressure an oxygen mask will appear. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the mask towards you and place it firmly over your nose and mouth. If you are travelling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person”. This illustrates an excellent point…you cannot be good to anyone else, until you are good to yourself FIRST!

Until you get into the habit of regularly and consistently taking time for yourself, schedule time in your calendar to do things that you enjoy and DON’T let anything else get in the way of that appointment with yourself! You would not consider breaking an important meeting that you had at work, would you? Cancelling an appointment that you have with your child's doctor would not be an option either. You must learn to give yourself the same level of priority, attention, and care. If you don't, no one else will!

Do not allow any obstacles or excuses to prevent you from making time for YOU! Make all necessary arrangements ahead of time, such as arranging for a babysitter or seeking help from your spouse. Whether it is a soak in the tub, a "mental health day" off of work, a lllllllooooonnnngggg nap, a mani/pedi, a 60 minute massage, a weekend free of any technological interruptions, an evening with a good book and a glass of wine, or a night out on the town with your friends, it is imperative to take care of YOU before overwhelm, stress, and fatigue get the best of you. I am pretty certain mama didn’t sign up for a nervous breakdown anytime in the near future, did she?

The more refreshed and energized you are, the more you will be able to care for the people and things that matter most in your life! Please, do this now…for you and those you love.