I’m sure you’ve heard it. “Mommy mode” it’s an easy place to get stuck in. It’s easy to lose who you are and only identify as MOMMY. Listen, motherhood is no easy feat. Its not all glamorous like a Instagram post. Don't get me wrong. Motherhood is the most selfless, humbling, beautiful role a woman embarks on. BUT if I can be real. It can also be a complete mess. You become so consumed with being mommy. Often times you may forget about yourself. It is essential for your mental, emotional, and physical health to find a healthy balance .
How do you make the switch, Without feeling selfish? —Here are some of my tips for turning down mommy mode just a little bit and not losing the bombshell that you are.
1. Find a hobby
What is your thing? The thing that you loved or still love but can't find time to fit it in your schedule. For me it was blogging, dancing, and my image consultant business, Shinelle Nouvelle. Hobbies unite you with other like mind individuals. A community of people who are interested in the same thing as you. Hobbies help improve self identity, and self worth. I challenge you to place it on your calendar. Add it to your to-do list and don't skip it. If you need to constantly write a list of goals and reminders for the week, DO IT!
2. Self care
Self care is something we often overlook. Self care a key component to improved self image, mood and helps with reducing anxiety. It is a deliberate act of focusing on your spiritual, mental and physical health well-being. Just because your a mom doesn’t mean you have the excuse to look like a HOT MESS. I always say “You don’t have to look how you feel" and with God, you sure don’t have to look like what you’ve been through. Have a mini spa day at home. A Facial, mani-pedi, and refreshing bath goes a long way. Do things to make your self look and feel beautiful. I'm a firm believer that beauty start from the inside out. wake up earlier than your family to spend the first 30 min of your day with the lord. Develop a regular sleep schedule for you and the little ones. Have a health diet and incorporate physical activity.
3. Exercise
Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. Exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when your heart and lung health improve, you have more energy to tackle daily chores. Source:mayoclinc
4. Plan a vacation.
The Process of planning a vacation improves happiness. It doesn't have to be something super extravagant. The goal is to relax and reduce stress.You can plan a stay-cation in your own city or state. A change of scenery to switch up your regular routine and forget your daily responsibility is needed from time to time. Don't be afraid to go alone.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for HELP.
Everyone needs help. Why is it so hard for us to ask for IT? Knowing that you’re in need of help can be hard to identify or admit because we’re often taught to be self-reliant and independent. It takes courage to reach out and say that you’re not managing, you’re unsure about something, or you just need a shoulder to cry on. in fact asking for help is an important life skill. TRUSTED Friends and family would love to give you a break. They would love to spend some QT with the little one(s). Make sure it’s a family/friend that you trust. This way you won’t feel the need to be a helicopter mom.
*( helicopter mom: is one that hovers).
6. Schedule date night.
Married, single, or dating . It’s important to have adult time. Schedule an evening out with your significant others or plan a girls night out. Date night is about connecting and having stimulating adult conversations. It is about eliminating distractions. Studies show that monthly date night bring stability between new parents.
YES, Mommy mode is 24/7. There is no turning off a lifetime role. Being a mother is a blessing I don't take for granted. Just remember to press pause and take care of your self. 'You’re no Good to anyone, if you’re not good to your self."
With luv ,
Shinelle