There’s no denying that being a single mum in this day and age is simultaneously one of life's toughest gigs and one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever embark upon. From watching your little ones grow, to celebrating their milestones, the journey as a single mum is filled with moments of profound joy and unconditional love.
However, as you probably already know, the never ending marathon of work, parenting, and personal life can often leave single mums with little to no time for themselves. Between school runs, preparing lunches and dinners, and never ending stacks of laundry, finding space for some ‘me time’ can seem like an impossible feat. But fret not, because finding time to pamper yourself is not only possible; it's absolutely vital for the well-being of both you and your little ones, and we’re here to help.
Here’s how you can take time for yourself as a single mum
1 Treat Yourself To Beauty Appointments
As a single mum, it can be all too easy to neglect yourself, especially when so much of your time is dedicated to keeping the little ones happy and healthy. Whether you’re dealing with 6 inches of root regrowth, nails that look like they’ve been through the ringer, or dull and lifeless skin, the struggle to maintain your appearance can be pretty overwhelming.
This is why treating yourself to beauty appointments plays a major role in not just allowing you to take some much needed time for yourself, but also to care for yourself in the manner you truly deserve. Taking a few hours every few weeks for a haircut, manicure, or skin treatment at an affordable beauty clinic can do wonders for your confidence and overall well-being, so remember that you are worth it.
2. Nurture Your Passions
Have you put your passions and hobbies on the back burner since becoming a single mum? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Juggling the demands of parenthood can be more than a full-time job in itself, so it’s no wonder that so many single mums often leave their passions and hobbies behind. However, if you’re looking to take time for yourself, nothing is better than reigniting and nurturing your passions.
Whether that’s baking, crocheting, candle-making or painting, your passions and hobbies hold the key to fuelling your spirit and regaining your sense of identity. So, be sure to dedicate time to the hobbies you love. At the end of the day, it’s all about investing in your wellbeing and happiness.
3. Carve Out Some Time For Movement
We get it, finding time to rest your feet for five minutes can be challenging enough as a single mum, let alone finding the energy for exercise and movement. However, it’s important to remember that prioritising your health is one of the most important things in life, which is why carving out some me-time for movement is vital.
While there is certainly no need to start training for a marathon (unless you want to of course), engaging in activities such as yoga, brisk walks, dancing or home workouts will make all the difference in both your mental and physical health. Remember that movement doesn’t have to be about shedding pounds or getting ripped — it’s all about finding some sacred time for yourself to invest in your health and wellbeing.
4. Practice Mindfulness & Relaxation Techniques
Another great way to take time for yourself as a single mum is to practise mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These are practices that you can easily incorporate into daily life, without ever having to leave the house. Some examples include morning meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even daily prayer that can all be incredibly effective for stress-relief. By taking just a few moments of your day to focus on relaxation and mindfulness, you’ll be able to significantly enhance your mental well-being, enabling you to be an even better wonder woman for the little ones.
5. Learn The Art Of Saying ‘No’
Do you have trouble saying ‘no’ to people? The truth is many of us struggle with setting boundaries and asserting our own needs, especially when you’re a single mum who is so accustomed to putting others first. Nothing to be ashamed about — it simply shows how much you care.
However, learning the art of saying ‘no’ can make all the difference in finding some much needed alone time for yourself. For example, if you’re feeling completely and utterly exhausted, it’s perfectly fine to decline invitations to social events. There will always be a next time. Similarly, if your workplace constantly expects you to work overtime, don’t be afraid to set boundaries.
At the end of the day, saying ‘no’ allows you to carve out moments of peace and reflection amidst life's demands. It doesn’t make you selfish, but rather, it makes you self aware. So, the next time you don’t feel up to attending that birthday party or work event, make it a point to say ‘no’. Your wellbeing matters too.
6. Embrace The Power Of Routine
Setting and sticking to a routine as a single mum can be challenging to say the least. Life can get pretty chaotic when kids are involved, especially when you’re also juggling a ton of other life responsibilities. However, if you’re looking to bring some much needed order into the chaos, it’s time to embrace the power of routine.
For example, consider allocating time slots for work, meals, play and bedtime. By sticking to a structured routine, you’ll be better able to find moments of me-time to unwind and indulge in activities you enjoy, guilt-free. Imagine the bliss of sipping on a glass of wine and enjoying an episode of two of your favourite Netflix series while the kids are fast asleep and in la-la land. What more could a mum ask for?
7. Build A Strong Support Network
As a single mum, building a strong support network can make all the difference. While it can be tempting to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. If you need some time for yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted family members or friends who may be able to look after your little ones while you take some time to unwind. Whether it's for a few hours to run errands, a well deserved shopping spree with your girlfriends, or simply a quiet evening at home, having a reliable support network can provide you with the breathing space you need.
Final words: How to take time for yourself as a single mum
And there you have it — just a few ways you can find time for yourself as a single mum in a hectic world. By prioritising your well-being and indulging in moments of relaxation you’ll be able to better nurture the incredible super woman that you are. Because remember – mumma bear needs some TLC and time out once in a while too. All the best!
