Flickr photo: Mother's Love by Jay Heich
When I think of all the ways my life has changed since I became a mother more than two years ago, the thing that stands out most is how I quit being so selfish.
When was the last time I cooked something for myself, because I was hungry? When was the last time I put together a meal based solely on what I liked?
When was the last time I went to the mall and didn’t talk myself out of buying a cute outfit because it cost too much? Only to turn around and spend the exact amount of money on something for the kids?
When was the last time I made an effort to wear something just for me, not because it was easy to hide vomit stains or wasn’t so fancy as to be ruined by a diaper blow-out? When was the last time I dared to wear heels even with the little ones under my foot?
When was the last time I allowed myself to put myself first? Is that allowed when you’re a mom? I know everyone talks about “me time” and I had attempted it previously, but lately I’ve been falling short.
I’m not talking about being selfish – or maybe I am? Maybe I need to be selfish about my own health and well-being so that I can be the best mother ever.
Maybe being selfish, in this instance at least, isn’t such a bad thing.
it’s sooooo hard to put ourselves first, isn’t it? a big factor in making (or preventing) that happen is TIME. if only i had “extra” time leftover the day, i’m almost sure i’d spend it painting my nails or reading my Essence magazine from January
but, alas, my TIME is spent tending to the kids. and really, i’m not sure if i mind?
“When was the last time I went to the mall and didn’t talk myself out of buying a cute outfit because it cost too much? Only to turn around and spend the exact amount of money on something for the kids?”
I definitely understand!! I do that all the time (in fact, I did it this morning). It’s difficult. I think women are socialized to feel that we are the ones who have to sacrifice the most for our families. Let me know if you figure out how to combat those feelings!