As a mom, it’s challenging to find time for yourself. I get it mama – kids, laundry, work, mealtimes, bath routines, etc. – it’s a lot to handle. After five years of being a mom, I think I’ve figured out how to maintain. Yes, there is a way to handle everything that goes into being a mom. It’s pretty simple, and it can be explained in five words – take what you can get. See, easy peasy, right? Here’s are a few ways I learned how to take what I can get to handle being a mom.
Enjoy Work Commutes
When I moved to Atlanta in 2005, I learned how to deal with one of the most hated things in life – commuting to work. Although I’ve only had to drive up to 15 miles for work, I still can spend anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes in the car each way. Before having kids, this would really get on my nerves as I saw it has lost productivity or less time to do what I wanted to do. Now, as a mom, I take what I can get. So when the traffic report says it will be a 45-minute commute, I’m like, “Cool!” Now I have time to listen to a podcast, listen to music with curse words, ride in silence, or call a friend and have an uninterrupted conversation. So, bring on the long commutes, I will take what can I get!
Embrace Minor Delays
I decided a while ago, part of my self-care routine is to get my nails done on a regular basis. It doesn’t always work out to go on a regular basis (remember, I have two kids!?), but I take what I can get. So, when I show up for my appointment and the pedicure chair is not ready or my technician is with another customer, I will just chill. There is no need to get upset about a delay. Yes, I will accept the offer for some bottled water and wait patiently. Waiting patiently also applies at the dentist, doctor, and It’s only an extra three to five minutes, but I will take what I can get!
Enjoy the Final Moments
Before we go into the final area, let me say this, “I love my kids.” Honestly, I really do. However, when I pull into the school parking lot, I sometimes take a few extra minutes before going inside. Sometimes, I’m finishing up a phone call, enjoying the last few notes of my “adult” music or simply taking the time to ask for strength before going inside. Whatever the case, I will enjoy the final moments of my alone time, and take what I can get!
So mamas, how are you enjoying your alone time? Just remember, take what you can get!