As a mom, it’s so easy to get caught up in guilt! Are we spending enough time with our kids? Are we providing them with healthy food? Are we teaching them how to be kind and responsible? These questions race through our minds at night, just as we’re trying to drift off. But let’s remember: no mom is perfect, just as no child is. We need to extend that grace to ourselves, too! Being a great mom is all about balance. How well are you managing everything on your plate? Part of that balance is making time for yourself!
Doing Something for Yourself
I’ve discovered a few activities that not only give me something to look forward to but also model healthy habits for my kids. I’ve never had many hobbies, but exercise has always been my number one passion. One of my favorite activities is playing soccer as an adult! Growing up, I played PAL soccer—it was never my main sport, but it was always so much fun. When I met Dadjogger and got involved in his family soccer training business, it reignited my passion. I might not be the best on the field, but Dadjogger has inspired me to give my all, and my running skills help me play midfield.
At 26, my friend Brittney introduced me to a league for women 26 and older, and I joined a team! It’s been ten years now, though I’ve taken breaks for three pregnancies, nursing, and juggling kids’ schedules. But it feels amazing to be back on the field! This fall marks my first time playing since 2022, and let me tell you, it’s been a bit of a learning curve. You might think you’re in shape, but soccer shape is a whole different level. The sprinting, quick stops, and constant movement can be tough! I play on Sunday nights, and Monday mornings are a wake-up call—my muscles remind me they’ve been on a break for two years! But even just an hour and a half of play gives me a much-needed boost. I love having my kids and Dadjogger cheering me on; his guidance is invaluable on the field.
I also had a blast playing kickball with my friend Katie. Unfortunately, since both kickball and soccer happen at the same time, I have to choose one each season. Kickball brought back memories of playing with my siblings as a kid. I hope to return to it in the spring!
Creating Habits and Routines
Another essential habit I’ve established is ensuring I get some form of movement every day. With colder weather settling in and no races on my calendar, I still prioritize staying active. Whether it’s kickboxing, Pilates, yoga, running, biking, swimming, or simply taking a long walk with my dog, I make it happen. I recently started a part-time job, and I’ve adjusted my morning routine to wake up at 6:15 for a quick workout until 7. This gives me time to shower, prepare breakfast for the boys, pack their lunches, lay out their backpacks, shoes, and jackets, and set up their toothbrushes before we head out at 8:10. Getting back into this routine after summer has been so rewarding!
Balancing It All
The toughest part of carving out time for these activities as a mom is the juggling act. With our family involved in four different sports, we’re constantly on the go! However, finding that one thing just for you is crucial to balancing it all. I don’t indulge in many personal treats like spa days or fancy nails, so investing in sports is what truly matters to me!
Put yourself out there
Get out there and find something for yourself! Put yourself in an uncomfortable position temporarily, to try it out! I am always a proponent of signing up for a race, but why not try something fun that doesn’t have to be competitive and it can just be enjoyable. My goal this winter is to practice a crochet project that I started at the beginning of September. I am trying to learn new hobbies to have a more balanced lifestyle and learn how to have more down time which is a flaw of mine. I constantly want to be moving and need to learn how to chill!
