100% I am the same! I keep trying to organise an outing for myself and my husband for ages and everytime I do it I end up bringing the kids aswell because I get feelings of guilt and figure they would enjoy it too. I try and take joy in tiny moments. A ten minute sit in the sun, a relaxing shower with nice products etc. At least then I feel I get something for myself. If only small

There should never ever be guilt attached to taking time much needed and necessary ‘me’ time. It really is very important to take care of personal needs and participate in personal activities. Children often see parents as good role models when they look after themselves, their needs and have other interests.

While you don’t have to put yourself first you really do have to have “you time”. Don’t feel guilty for the occasional treat and make sure you really enjoy it. Have the kids aware that you are out for set hours and you are going to enjoy it. Maybe hint at vouchers for facials & manicures etc for Xmas and then they will all like to see you enjoying their gift to you.

I have always made time for the the things I enjoy and also to look after health and wellbeing. It is so important to have interests and to engage in meaningful and fulfilling activities. Taking care of these needs does indeed bring happiness and there should never ever be guilt about taking ‘me’ time.

Yes! It was hard at the beginning but now as the kids are a bit more independent and dont need to be glued to me, im finding that im giving more time to myself to look after me as well. You cant give from an empty cup and you still need to be looked after too! So dont feel guilty.

I feel you, this was me for a few years and now i regret it a lot. I have a couple of friends that we agreed to share the load with and when one has an appointment they need to go to, we look after each others kids, that way the kids get to hang out with their friends and you get to enjoy some me time and do something for yourself. Have you considered doing something like this?

When my kids were really little, yes, I found it hard. But I had a major medical problem and wound up having to have the kids in care at least one day a week for medical appointments. And usually then I’d have a couple of hours “spare” for something like a haircut after the medical stuff. I don’t recommend that strategy though!

Honestly, I don’t feel bad at all. I’m a SAHM so I pour so much love and attention into my toddler, but mumma needs some me time. We currently have him in day care twice a week for socialisation until a sibling comes along, so I take that as a chance to get what I need done and also take some chill time. I actually just got my hair done for the first time in forever last week while he had a day of messy play.