Be there for yourself! Take yourself seriously!

I have recently returned from a 2 week long holiday in Europe. For anyone who has travelled with a toddler in the prime of their terrible 2s and a baby will probably tell you that it’s not really a “holiday”.

And they will be right. What it is, is a break. A break from monotony. A break from the endless household chores. A break from the norm.

All us stay-at-home mommies need it, deserve it and God knows we have earned it.

Being a full-time mommy is hard work. You have heard this before and I will say it again: you work below minimum wage and for very little appreciation.

The reward is not tangible. You must find it in the little things to keep yourself going and to give some value to your endless sacrifices. The tiny hugs, the wet kisses and the growth of the small person you helped bring into this world. They give immense satisfaction without a doubt.

But it gets to you. It can get claustrophobic. It helps to detach yourself, however briefly, from this rut of cleaning, cooking, laundry, and especially always putting someone else’s needs before your own.

Fortunately since I live in London, its geographical location on the world map, allows convenient travelling to a whole range of exciting places. And for me travelling is therapeutic. Metaphorically speaking it oils my squeaky hinges. I feel a sense of calm wash over me. My brain, which usually thinks a gazillions thoughts an hour, slows down. And I return to my abode, with a renewed energy and fervour to take life on.

Even if you are unable to get away completely you need to recharge those batteries. It could be as simple as reading a good book or watching a movie. It could be an elaborate girls’ night out or a heart-to-heart with your girlfriend. It could very well be an active pampering session be it shopping or spa. Something. Anything.

Just know that it’s important to look after yourself first. After all as they say – a happy mom makes a happy home. Clichéd but so so true.

Be there for yourself and take yourself seriously! Make a conscious effort to find personal happiness. And don’t let anyone make you feel guilty about it. You owe it to yourself. No other justification needed.

Love,

A Fancy Cinderella

Instagram: afancycinderella