The Importance of Self-Care as a Mom (and How to Actually Make Time for It)

Before becoming a mom, I thought self-care was about bubble baths, spa days, and sipping tea in perfect silence. Fast forward to motherhood, and I quickly learned that self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

The problem? Finding the time.

Between taking care of my little one, running a household, working, and trying to keep everything together, self-care can easily fall to the bottom of the priority list. But I’ve also learned that when I don’t take care of myself, I have less patience, less energy, and I’m not the mom I want to be.

So let’s talk about it—the importance of self-care, why it’s not selfish, and how to actually make time for it (even when it feels impossible).

Why Self-Care is Essential (Not Optional!)

We hear it all the time: You can’t pour from an empty cup. And it’s true. When we take care of ourselves, we show up as better moms, partners, and people.

Here’s what self-care does for us:
✅ Helps prevent burnout
✅ Reduces stress and anxiety
✅ Gives us more patience and emotional resilience
✅ Makes us feel more like ourselves—not just “mom”

Yet, so many of us feel guilty about taking time for ourselves. But the reality is: Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your child.

How to Make Time for Self-Care (Even When It Feels Impossible)

1. Redefine What Self-Care Looks Like

Self-care doesn’t have to be an all-day event. It can be small, meaningful moments throughout the day:

• Drinking your coffee while it’s still hot ☕
• A 5-minute deep-breathing session before bed
• Listening to music that makes you happy
• Saying no to things that drain you
• Letting yourself take a break without guilt

2. Schedule It Like an Appointment

If we wait for the perfect time to take care of ourselves, it’ll never happen. Put it on your calendar. Even if it’s 10 minutes, make it non-negotiable.

3. Ask for Help (and Accept It!)

This one is tough, but so important. You don’t have to do everything alone. Whether it’s a partner, family member, friend, or even a babysitter—let people support you so you can take time for yourself.

4. Let Go of the Guilt

Taking care of yourself does not mean you love your child any less. In fact, it means you love them enough to show up as the best version of yourself.

You Deserve This

Mama, I know how easy it is to put yourself last. But you deserve to be cared for too. You deserve rest. You deserve moments of joy. And most of all, you deserve to feel like you—not just a mom, but a whole person with needs, dreams, and emotions.

So let’s make a promise to ourselves today: We will stop seeing self-care as selfish. We will stop waiting for permission. We will take the time we need—because we are worth it.

XO, Lili