Let’s be honest – when you’re a mum, your own needs often slide to the bottom of the list. Between school runs, meal prep, work deadlines, and keeping tiny humans alive, finding a moment to breathe can feel impossible. But here is the truth: you cannot pour from an empty cup.
Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential survival maintenance. It resets your patience, recharges your energy, and helps you remember who you are outside of being “Mum”. Whether it’s five minutes of peace or a full day out, reclaiming your time is the first step to being a happier, more present parent.
If you are feeling burnt out or just need a little inspiration to prioritise yourself, here is how to start carving out that crucial time and making the most of it.
Why “me time” matters (and how to find it)
We often feel guilty about stepping away, but burnout is real. When you are constantly in “give mode,” your stress levels rise, and your patience wears thin. Taking a break allows you to decompress and return to your family feeling refreshed.
Finding the time, however, is the tricky part. It often requires asking for help – something many of us struggle to do. This might mean swapping childcare duties with a friend, asking your partner to take the kids for a Saturday morning, or even hiring a babysitter for an evening. Start small if you need to. Even an hour a week to read a book, go for a walk, or sit in a café alone can make a world of difference.
Inspiration for your next day out
Once you have secured some time, the next question is: what do you do with it? Here are a few ideas to get you out of the house and feeling like yourself again.
The Girly Day Out
Sometimes, you just need a laugh with your girlfriends. A girly day out is the perfect antidote to the isolation that motherhood can sometimes bring.
High Tea: Dress up and enjoy tiny sandwiches and scones. It feels indulgent and gives you a chance to chat without interruption.
Spa Day: Book a massage or a facial. Being pampered is a rare luxury for mums, and it’s a great way to physically relax your body.
Creative Workshop: Try a pottery class or a “paint and sip” session. Doing something creative engages a different part of your brain and is great fun with friends.
The Couples Date
If it has been a while since you and your partner had a conversation that wasn’t about the kids or bills, a date day (or night) is in order.
The Dinner Date: It’s a classic for a reason. Go somewhere nice where you can actually hear each other speak.
Activity Date: Go bowling, visit an art gallery, or take a cooking class together. Shared experiences help you reconnect.
Staycation: If you can manage an overnight sitter, booking a hotel in your own city can feel like a mini-holiday without the travel stress.
Dress the part: Investing in your wardrobe
One of the biggest hurdles to going out is the dreaded thought: “I have nothing to wear.” When you spend 90% of your time in leggings or nursing tops, the idea of getting dressed up can feel daunting. But fashion has a funny way of shifting your mindset.
Investing in your wardrobe isn’t just about clothes; it’s about confidence. When you look good, you tend to feel good. You don’t need a whole new closet, just a few key pieces that make you feel like the woman you were before the baby arrive.
The power of heels
There is something transformative about slipping on a pair of heels. They change your posture, the way you walk, and instantly elevate an outfit.
Specifically, a great pair of black heels is a non-negotiable staple. They are the ultimate multitasker in your wardrobe.
Versatility: Black heels go with everything—jeans and a nice top for drinks, a dress for a dinner date, or tailored trousers for a meeting.
Timeless: They never go out of style. Investing in a quality pair means you will have them for years.
Confidence Boost: There is a psychological switch that flips when you trade your trainers for heels. It signals that you are stepping into “adult time.”
If you’re out of practice, you don’t need to go for a six-inch stiletto. A block heel or a kitten heel offers the same elegance without the foot pain, making them practical for a mum on the go who still wants to look chic.
Start prioritising yourself today
Making time for yourself isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for your mental health and well-being. By carving out time in your schedule, planning fun outings, and investing in a wardrobe that makes you feel confident, you are nurturing the most important person in your children’s lives: you.
So, book that babysitter, dust off those black heels, and go enjoy yourself. You deserve it.
