Let the selfish mom school you
So what if you don’t enjoy sitting on the sidelines of your child’s soccer game. Who cares if it’s not your bag to volunteer at the bake sale. No matter that you won’t extend the kids’ bedtimes because it will cut into your time. All moms should be more selfish.
It's the new year. Would it really be such a bad thing to put yourself first a little more often? When it comes to family, why not resolve to move yourself up on your own to-do list in 2013? And dare we suggest: Be a little more selfish...
Early bedtime for the kids
Between school, work and household responsibilities, days are often long and hectic. Would it be the worst thing in the world to send the kids to their rooms for quiet time before bed so you can have a little time of your own — to decompress or chat with your husband? There's no hard and fast rule that demands the kids need to be attached to your hip at all times. Or, tuck yourself in after you put them to bed. You'll wake up the next day refreshed and ready to be a better mom.
How to sneak in a little "me" time>>
Plan your own play date
This play date won't involve Legos or a swing set . Instead, this one will be adults only and involve a glass of wine and uninterrupted bonding time with your girlfriends. Think about how much you schedule for your kids — between birthday parties and sleepovers. And ask yourself, when was the last time you had proper adult time? And we're not including play dates where you are friends with your child's friend's mom. Because really, when was the last time you had a decent conversation during one of those?
Social calendar in a rut?>>
Skip the soccer game
There are some moms who love to attend each and every one of their child's sporting events. And if you're that mother, more power to you! But if you're not, you don't have to pretend that you are. In fact, you can skip a game or two and you can even tell your child why. If you explain your reason for not attending, whether it's to catch up on sleep, run errands or read a book, your child will understand that you also have things you need to do and sometimes those things coincide with his sporting events.
And obviously children's activities don't exist solely so you can come watch them. First and foremost, they are for your child. Hopefully he enjoys playing the sport and being a part of the team. So you coming to sit in the stands should be an added bonus.
Peer pressure and parenting>>
More ways to make more time for yourself
It's "me" time, not "mom" time
Mommy guilt: "You" time versus "kid" time
Mom's balancing act: How to take better care of yourself