"Me" Time
Copyright © 2003, All Rights Reserved

Being a full time mother and WAHM sometimes leaves very little time for the things you had hoped to be doing by working from home. You fight a never ending battle to keep the children on schedule, juggle school events, well checkups, sick visits, grocery shopping, business deadlines and responsibilities… the list goes on for miles! Are you spending any quality time with the children? Have you made time for your significant other? When was the last time you had a little “Me" time?

As a single mother, I’ve learned this lesson above all others: no matter how much you love your children and want to be with them, you MUST take a break from the children occasionally. You need to find a family member or someone you trust that can occasionally watch your children for a few hours or for a night out. Look for Mother’s Day out programs and schedule yourself a regular break if possible. Sometimes taking a break and removing yourself from your regular responsibilities can improve your ability to focus and be more productive. Having a backup sitter is always helpful if you are facing a big project that requires little or no distraction as well.

Occasionally leaving the children with a sitter does not reflect badly on you. It’s just common sense. If you hear an unsolicited remark about hiring a sitter after you quit your traditional job to stay home with the children, remember that it is just that – an unsolicited remark. Don’t let it bother you. If the person remarking hasn’t walked in your shoes, their opinion is unimportant in these matters. Only YOU know what is best for you and your children.

After you have placed your children in good care, spend time relaxing and doing things that you enjoy. You may want to take a bubble bath, see a movie, read a book or visit old friends. Some days, just taking a nap sounds good to me! Be sure it is something you’ve wanted to do without distractions and enjoy yourself.

About the Author:
Michele Barber is the owner of www.ChelesTreasures.com and Conversations With Chele, WAHM, a newsletter for work at home moms with support and resources needed to survive the work at home rat race. Subscribe here:
http://www.chelestreasures.com/newsletter.htm

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