How many times have those words come out of your mouth? So many women use this as an excuse not to take the time to take care of themselves. We work, raise families, take care of homes and everyone else but ourselves. It's so easy to do and for some reason we justify it. Taking care of yourself is just as important as anything else.
Taking care of yourself is not being conceited. It is not being vain. It does not make you high maintenance. It means you value yourself and take pride in who you are from the inside out. It is not something to ever feel guilty about.
I promise you, you can still be a great mother, wife, employee, keeper of the house and Wonder Woman even if you make some "me" time. Honestly, you'll probably be better at it all.
Here are some of my best tips for being the best you possible with a limited budget and even less time.
Keep your makeup and hair products in a central location
Little ones running around the house? Locking yourself in the bathroom to do your makeup and your hair is probably not an option. I keep all of my stuff in my kitchen. It's in the middle of the house. I can see what's going on and get ready in between packing lunch and signing permission slips. You can also keep a small makeup bag in the glove compartment in the car for quick touch ups.
Pick your clothes out once a week
It may take you some time initially but if you set aside your outfits on Sunday night for example, you know what you need and can have it ready to go. Instead of that last minute rush at 7am scrambling around the house looking for socks, you can get started on that second cup of coffee.
Don't wash and dry your hair everyday
First off, its not good for it. You strip it of natural oils. If it's colored, your color will fade faster. Dry shampoo, I can't say it enough, it is a life saver. I have red hair. Red hair fades fast. My routine is straight hair the first day, curly the next and if I have to, an up-do day on day 3. There are so many cute hair ideas on Pinterest. Check them out. I love to spray my hair with salt water spray, braid it and sleep on it. Instant beach waves the next day in no time. Also, get a great haircut. Something that works with the natural texture of your hair. It will take less time to style.
Multi task with skin and hair care
A moisturizer that is tinted and has a spf, hair spray that adds shine and protects from heat and a face mask that also exfoliates. There are tons of great ways to cut corners.
Schedule your time for yourself
Pre-book beauty appointments. Even better, book them with friends. Then you get the added benefit of girl time. Set them for a time when your little ones can have a play date. Maybe you can return the favor for the mom hosting it.
Can't find time to work out? Yes you can. I know you're exhausted but if you exercise, it helps with your energy level. Try this great little workout routine during the commercial breaks of your favorite shows. This one is great! Commercial workout
Boost your wardrobe without shrinking your wallet
Having a family is expensive. As mothers, we tend to take care of the children first, naturally. Which means a lot of times we are left with a less than stellar wardrobe. Check out thrift stores. So many times you'll find great designer items at really inexpensive prices. Have a clothing swap with friends. Gather all of the items you don't wear, get together with girlfriends and swap stuff. "New to you" can be as good as new! You can also add to your wardrobe with accessories. They can instantly change the look of your wardrobe and update your style.
Eat well
How many times have you skipped a meal because you are busy? Big mistake. It messes with your metabolism, blood sugar and makes you feel sluggish. Stash some protein bars or snacks in your car, purse or at your desk. It might not be a full course meal but it's better than nothing.
These are just a few ways to make time for yourself. I will go into more options with future blogs.
But for now, repeat after me...
"Taking the time to take care of myself makes me a better me. I am not neglecting my children. I am teaching them a valuable lesson."
Your children learn from you. Do not feel guilty for taking the time to take care of yourself. You are teaching them to take pride in themselves. This is a HUGE lesson. It matters as much as being nice to others, respect, etc...
If you are doubtful, do me a favor and try it. Even if just for a couple of days. Take the time to pull your outfit together, do your hair, put on a little makeup and see how it makes you feel. I hear from women all the time that try it and can't believe the difference. I am not saying devote an hour and a half each day because most of us can't and don't need to. But take a little time. You deserve it.
If you have ways that you cut corners and costs, I would love to hear from you!
Have a great night!
xo
Bethany
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