It’s Okay to Put Yourself First (Yes, Really!)

Because “me-time” shouldn’t be a luxury – it should be a requirement.

Ah, Mother’s Day. The one day a year when we might get to sleep in until 8:00 AM (if we’re lucky), receive a glitter-glued card with six kinds of cereal taped to it (adorable, but also... why?), and maybe—just maybe—someone else does the dishes.

But here’s a little secret that shouldn’t be a secret at all: You don’t need a holiday to take care of yourself. You don’t have to earn rest by being superhuman. And you definitely, absolutely, unapologetically are allowed to put yourself first sometimes. (Go ahead, read that again.)

As moms, we’re wired to give 110% to everyone else first—our kids, our partners, our group chats, the PTA, the snack bar, the dog who’s already been walked twice today. We carry the weight of everyone’s world on our shoulders, all while battling that sneaky little monster called mom-guilt anytime we even think about taking a break.

But let’s be real: Being a mom is the hardest, most exhausting, most emotionally complex full-time job in the universe. And like any job, you need regular breaks, a support team, and a hot coffee that hasn’t been reheated three times.

So, how can we start putting ourselves first without the guilt trip?

Glad you asked. Here are a few mom-approved, guilt-free, and sanity-saving ways to take care of you:

1. Schedule the Nap Like It’s a Doctor’s Appointment

You wouldn’t miss a pediatrician appointment, right? So pencil in your nap with the same level of commitment. Even 20 minutes of quiet time (locked bathroom, closet, car—no judgment) can recharge your battery and keep you from turning into Momzilla at 6 p.m.

2. Manicure? Yes. And Make It Fancy.

Whether it’s a solo trip to the nail salon or an at-home mani while watching reality TV with a glass of wine, this is about more than polish. It’s about permission. Your hands do everything—let someone pamper them for once.

3. Spa Day = Sanity Day

A massage isn’t a splurge. It’s therapy. Book a spa day or even just a 30-minute massage and remind yourself what it feels like to be cared for instead of always doing the caring.

4. Date Night With the Husband (Yes, You Still Like Each Other!)

Between diapers, homework, and bedtime negotiations, romance can get lost under a pile of laundry. Reconnect with your partner over a real meal (one that doesn’t involve chicken nuggets or sharing with tiny hands).

5. Do Nothing. Seriously, Just... Nothing.

Stare at a wall. Watch the ceiling fan spin. Scroll Instagram in peace. You don’t have to be productive 24/7. Sometimes the most radical act of self-care is embracing absolutely nothing—and loving it.

6. Hang Out With Other Moms (Who Also Get It)

There’s something magical about laughing over coffee with other women who understand why you keep finding Legos in your purse. Build your village and lean on it.

7. Say “No” Without the Novel

No, you can’t volunteer for the third bake sale this month. No, you’re not hosting the neighborhood movie night. No, you don’t need to explain. A simple “No, thank you” is powerful, freeing, and good for your blood pressure.

Being a Good Mom Doesn’t Mean Being a Martyr

Your kids need a happy mom, not a perfect one. And the best way to be a present, loving, and engaged mom is to make sure you don’t lose yourself in the process.

So this Mother’s Day, let’s make a little vow: To celebrate ourselves—not just with a brunch and a bouquet—but by honoring our own needs, wants, and well-being all year long.

Because taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s smart. And honestly? You deserve it.