Carving out Me Time-LIVE with Jen

One of the biggest obstacles that all the busy moms face is finding time for themselves. Whether that’s time to use the restroom alone or take a shower without somebody needing something, or the time to work out, read a book, have a real conversation with friends… anything that make you feel like you again.  With the never ending to do list and the needs of everyone else, it’s HARD!

I know and share regularly what has worked for me and many of my clients, but it’s also great to learn from what has worked for others.  

Today I interviewed Jen Mackinnon founder of Practical, by Default an online community where she shares “valuable resources, tips, and tricks that are totally practical and doable designed for working homeschool moms.” As a mom who works outside the home, homeschools her 2 children, AND runs a successful blog and thriving online community, Jen knows busy!  She also knows first hand the consequences of not taking time for herself.

I highly recommend you take some time to watch this interview. There were so many great take aways for me:

• Self care doesn’t have to be this big to do. It can be as simple as taking 5 minutes to recharge, breath, unplug.
• Taking time for you is not selfish. Taking that time is vital. Constantly remind yourself why it is important to you.
• Reminding yourself to be grateful regularly is a major part of self care.
• Life is never going to be perfect.
• Chose something for “me time” that you love. You will find time for things that you love.
• Make yourself accountable to friend, family member or even social media (*ahem* the Strong Mom Tribe) so you feel more like you have to do it because you said you would.
• Start small and work your way up to larger chucks.
• Write it down so you can check it off.
• Don’t beat yourself up if you “fall of the wagon.” Just keep going!
• Choose one really small thing that you will do everyday that will make you feel like you accomplished something.
• Ask for help and let things go!
• Remember you are not alone in this journey!

The blog post we mention at the end is 9 Signs That You Are In Survival Mode And How to Get Out.  Another great post along the same lines as our conversation is How to Make Time for You When You “Don’t Have Time”.

Thank you Jen!!

PS. After just watching this back I realize you can hear Drew yelling "Mommy" from the bathroom for the last 5 minutes. Poor guy!