Self-Care Tips for Busy Moms: Five Easy Tips

Share this article:

For decades, society has taught us that in order to be amazing moms, we have to put ourselves last.   We have been programmed to take care of our own needs only after we’ve worked tirelessly around the home.  That has caused many moms to put their careers and businesses, health, and even their lives on the line.  Incorporating some simple self-care tips for busy moms will make it easier to put your well-being on your to-do list.

For far too long, moms have neglected their self-care leaving themselves overworked, stressed, unkempt, and sleep-deprived.  The vicious cycle of making breakfast, keeping the house clean, doing the laundry, and keeping up with a busy work schedule has moms feeling like they’re running in circles without knowing how and when to stop. 

This post contains affiliate links. That means I will receive a small commission for any purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

How can I make time for myself as a busy mom?

Finding time for yourself in the midst of all the things you have to do can be tough. To strike a balance and achieve success in your career or business and parenting without losing your sanity, you have to schedule time for self-care into your daily life no matter how busy you are. 

Busy mothers have to be intentional about finding gaps in their schedules that lend themselves well to a little downtime.  You may even have to be a little creative and find ways that you can multitask to make sure that you sneak in some activities that will help you to recharge so that you can get back to being the amazing mom that you are! Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference.  

Here are some ideas of how you might be able to sneak in a little bit of quiet time:

• Early Morning Rituals: Wake up a bit earlier than the rest of the household to enjoy a quiet cup of tea or coffee first thing in the morning. Engage in meditation, or read a chapter from a favorite book.
• Lunch Break Escape: Utilize lunch breaks for a short walk, listening to a podcast, or practicing mindfulness. This allows a brief pause in the middle of the day.
• Nighttime Wind Down: Dedicate some time before bedtime for relaxation activities such as a warm bath, skincare routine, or a few pages of a good book.
• Delegate Tasks: Share responsibilities with family members or consider hiring help to free up time for personal activities.
• Weekend Retreats: Plan occasional weekend getaways, whether it’s a spa retreat, a quiet cabin in nature, or a solo trip to explore personal interests.
• Exercise Sessions: Incorporate physical activities like jogging, yoga, or a fitness class into the schedule to boost both physical and mental well-being.
• Virtual Socializing: Connect with friends through virtual platforms for a quick catch-up or online game night, providing a social break without leaving home.
• Creative Outlets: Set aside time for creative pursuits like painting, writing, or crafting, allowing self-expression and a break from routine.
• Meal Prep Efficiency: Optimize meal preparation by planning and prepping in advance, saving time for personal activities during the week.
• Mindful Commuting: If commuting, use the time to unwind by listening to favorite music, podcasts, or practicing mindfulness while in transit.

• Power Naps: When possible, sneak in a short power nap to recharge during the day, especially if experiencing fatigue.
• Home Spa Evening: Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with a relaxing bath, face mask, and soothing music to unwind after a busy day.
• Tech-Free Moments: Designate specific times to disconnect from electronic devices, allowing for mental relaxation and reducing screen time.
• Coffee Shop Quality Time: Treat yourself to a solo coffee shop visit, enjoying a favorite drink and perhaps reading a magazine or book.
• Educational Breaks: Explore online courses or webinars on topics of personal interest during breaks or designated “me time.”
• Workout Challenges: Engage in short, intense workout challenges that can be completed in a brief period, ensuring physical activity fits into a tight schedule.
• Podcast Breaks: Listen to inspiring or entertaining podcasts while completing household chores or during moments of downtime.
• Artistic Breaks: Sketch, doodle, or engage in any form of artistic expression during breaks for a burst of creativity.
• Photography Strolls: Take a camera or smartphone for a leisurely photography stroll in a nearby park or scenic area.
• Gratitude Journaling: Dedicate a few minutes daily to reflect on positive moments and jot them down in a gratitude journal, fostering a positive mindset.

Why do busy moms need to focus on themselves sometimes?

Simply put, if you don’t take the time to take care of yourself, you’re more likely to be cranky, irritated, unhealthy, and overwhelmed. These are all characteristics that make it even more difficult to juggle your busy schedule. You can’t take great care of your family if you’re experiencing burnout and if you’re overly frustrated.

Taking some for self-care as a busy mom helps you to feel reinvigorated and, in turn, you are better able to take care of the people and things you’re responsible for. If you want to be your best self, you have to make time for self-care.

Also, when you take the time to focus on yourself and your overall well-being, you are sending the message to your family that self-care is important. It helps them to better understand and respect your need to honor your physical and mental health, and it models for them the importance of doing the same for themselves.

Here are some reasons busy moms need to focus on self-care:

• Mental Health: Prioritizing self-care helps busy moms maintain optimal mental health. Taking breaks, engaging in activities they enjoy, and finding moments of solitude contribute to stress reduction and overall well-being.
• Physical Health: Regular self-care routines, including exercise, nutritious meals, and sufficient sleep, contribute to physical health. Busy moms need robust energy levels to tackle daily responsibilities.
• Improved Focus: Taking breaks and caring for yourself enhances concentration and focus. A well-rested and rejuvenated mom is better equipped to handle tasks efficiently and make informed decisions.
• Role Modeling: Demonstrating self-care sets a positive example for children. Busy moms who prioritize their well-being teach valuable lessons about the importance of self-love and healthy habits.
• Increased Productivity: Regular self-care prevents burnout and increases productivity. A mom who takes time for herself is likely to approach tasks with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
• Emotional Resilience: Life as a busy mom comes with challenges. Engaging in self-care activities builds emotional resilience, enabling moms to navigate difficulties with a more positive mindset.
• Balanced Relationships: Practicing self-care fosters better relationships. When moms are in a good mental and emotional state, they can contribute positively to their relationships with partners, family members, and friends.
• Effective Problem-Solving: Self-care contributes to clearer thinking and better problem-solving abilities. Busy moms can approach challenges with a calm and rational mindset, finding effective solutions.
• Reduced Stress Levels: Juggling numerous responsibilities can lead to stress. Regular self-care practices, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness, help in managing and reducing stress levels.
• Enhanced Creativity: Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation stimulates creativity. Busy moms can tap into their creative side, bringing fresh perspectives to both their personal and professional lives.

• Prevention of Burnout: Continuous demands without self-care can lead to burnout. By taking time for themselves, busy moms can prevent burnout, ensuring they can sustain their responsibilities in the long run.
• Improved Physical Appearance: Feeling good about oneself is closely linked to self-care. Taking the time for personal grooming and appearance can boost confidence and self-esteem.
• Better Sleep Quality: Quality sleep is crucial for overall well-being. Busy moms who prioritize self-care are more likely to establish healthy sleep routines, leading to improved sleep quality.
• Increased Patience: Self-care contributes to emotional regulation. Moms who take care of themselves are more likely to exhibit patience and understanding, even in challenging situations.
• Enhanced Enjoyment of Motherhood: By taking care of their physical and mental health, busy moms can experience more joy and fulfillment in their role as mothers, creating positive memories with their children.
• Personal Growth: Self-care provides an opportunity for personal growth. Busy moms can pursue hobbies, interests, or educational endeavors that contribute to their individual development.
• Prevention of Health Issues: Neglecting self-care may lead to health issues. Busy moms who prioritize their well-being are taking a proactive approach to prevent potential health problems in the future.
• Increased Self-Compassion: Regular self-care fosters self-compassion. Busy moms who are kind to themselves during challenging times build a more positive self-image.
• Effective Time Management: Moms who take care of themselves are likely to approach time management more effectively. They can allocate time for both responsibilities and self-care without feeling overwhelmed.
• Long-Term Happiness: Ultimately, self-care contributes to long-term happiness. Busy moms who prioritize their well-being are investing in a happier and more fulfilling life for themselves and their families.

How can I fit myself into my busy schedule?

1. Put YOU on the List

Self-care is all about putting YOU on the list and caring for yourself as much as you care for the rest of the family. The perfect mom is constantly tasked with helping every other family member strike a balance in their lives, but most of the time, no one does the same for them.

This is not a complaint; it’s merely me pointing out the obvious.  Most moms wouldn’t have it any other way!  I know I wouldn’t.  However, we have to carve out some time for ourselves so that we can continue to take care of our families.  

If you don’t find yourself important enough to put YOU on the list, then who will? You’re expected to put your children’s basic needs, health, and appearance ahead of your own.  Think of it this way; if you break down from dealing with loads of tasks, you may risk not doing the very thing you want to do:  take care of your family. 

READ NEXT: Self-Care Box Ideas

2. Create a Work Schedule/Routine

The truth is that you will never have enough time to manage your daily activities and still have time to care for yourself.  A mother’s job is never done.  The tasks are neverending.  Having a well-structured routine is crucial as it is the only way to ensure that you will get all of the important things done. 

Make a list of things you want to do each day and stick to it religiously. If doing the laundry feels comfortable only on Mondays, there is no need to go through the stress of doing it on other days of the week. And, while we’re on the topic, if you have older children, go ahead and delegate some of those responsibilities to them!  

3. Seek Help and Support

As simple as this sounds, most busy moms do not think of seeking help or support as a way to get more time on their hands. Why is it that most moms feel that doing everything around the home all herself without help is the way to go? In reality, that leads to moms being worn out, overwhelmed, and bitter. 

Listen, I get it.  The “if you want something done right you’ve got to do it yourself” mentality was my thing for a long, long time.  But I had to let it go! It was wearing me down and having a major impact on my mood. 

4. Learn to Say No

As a busy mom, you may think that saying no will make the world go up in flames!   We have to learn how to stop saying yes to every demand, especially when they are not that important and take you away from your family. 

Oh, and it also takes you away from time you could be using to care for yourself!  It’s time for us to be honest with ourselves and evaluate some of our commitments.  

Sometimes, we have to say no to some things in order to say yes to ourselves. Lysa Terkeurst’s The Best Yes is a helpful resource for decision-making and thinking carefully about when to say yes and when to say no.

5. Learn to Love Yourself

Instead of feeling bad about leaving the house a mess or not packing up the toys in the living room, accept your flaws. Know that you’ll never achieve perfection no matter how hard you try.   

Practicing self-love doesn’t mean that you are selfish or unconcerned about others. It means that you don’t want to attract disappointment and stress to your life by making improvements based on others’ judgment. The bottom line is that you need to start loving yourself enough to care for yourself. 

Read Next: 10 Ways to Be Heavy on the Self-Love

101 Self-Care Tips for Busy Moms

Here is a list of my best self-care tips for busy moms: 

1. Schedule “me time” regularly.
2. Prioritize sleep and establish a bedtime routine.
3. Practice deep breathing exercises.
4. Take short breaks during the day for quick stretches.
5. Set realistic expectations for yourself.
6. Delegate tasks to family members.
7. Create a peaceful morning routine.
8. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in silence.
9. Say “no” when you need to.
10. Take a walk in nature.
11. Schedule regular chiropractic adjustments.
12. Practice mindfulness meditation.
13. Listen to your favorite podcast.
14. Try a new hobby.
15. Read a chapter of a good book.
16. Have a dance party with your kids.
17. Set boundaries with technology use.
18. Establish a skincare routine.
19. Treat yourself to a spa day at home.
20. Participate in a book club.
21. Plan a date night with your partner.
22. Practice gratitude journaling.
23. Take a yoga or Pilates class.
24. Learn to say “yes” to help.
25. Enjoy a quiet bubble bath.
26. Cook a nutritious meal for yourself.
27. Try adult coloring books.
28. Take a power nap during nap time.
29. Attend a local support group for moms.
30. Have a family game night.
31. Get a massage or practice self-massage.
32. Create a cozy reading nook.
33. Write down your thoughts in a journal.
34. Plan a weekend getaway.
35. Practice positive affirmations.
36. Schedule regular check-ups.
37. Learn to delegate tasks at work.
38. Join a fitness class.
39. Attend a live music or comedy show.
40. Invest in comfortable loungewear.
41. Take a technology detox day.
42. Learn a new recipe and cook for yourself.
43. Attend a paint and sip class.
44. Have a picnic in the park.
45. Organize a potluck with friends.
46. Try aromatherapy with essential oils.
47. Attend a parenting workshop.
48. Explore a new place in your city.
49. Set realistic fitness goals.
50. Create a vision board for self-improvement.
51. Have a “staycation” at home.
52. Practice positive visualization.
53. Plan a quick getaway with your kids.
54. Attend a local farmer’s market.
55. Take a creative writing class.
56. Join a social or sports club.
57. Have a DIY pampering session.
58. Prioritize self-care in your daily routine.
59. Attend a local community event.
60. Set aside time for creative hobbies.
61. Attend a comedy show for a good laugh.
62. Take a day off from household chores.
63. Create a bedtime routine for your kids.
64. Plan a day of relaxation at a spa.
65. Enjoy a movie night with your favorite films.
66. Start a blog or a creative project.
67. Plan a family photo session.
68. Connect with other moms online.
69. Take a scenic drive.
70. Attend a motivational seminar.
71. Plan a “no cooking” night with takeout.
72. Have a picnic in your backyard.
73. Volunteer for a cause you believe in.
74. Learn a new skill or hobby.
75. Plan a monthly self-care day.
76. Practice self-compassion.
77. Create a vision board for your goals.
78. Establish a budget for self-care activities.
79. Set aside time for a hobby you love.
80. Attend a local wellness retreat.
81. Have a technology-free day with the family.
82. Learn to say “yes” to your own needs.
83. Plan a weekend morning for yourself.
84. Practice progressive muscle relaxation.
85. Prioritize alone time when needed.
86. Create a monthly self-care challenge.
87. Attend a DIY workshop.
88. Schedule regular check-ins with friends.
89. Take a day off from work for self-care.
90. Establish a morning routine for energy.
91. Plan a date night with yourself.
92. Practice positive self-talk.
93. Try a new fitness class or activity.
94. Establish a bedtime routine for your kids.
95. Plan a family day out.
96. Set aside time for a hobby you love.
97. Attend a local wellness retreat.
98. Have a technology-free day with the family.
99. Learn to say “yes” to your own needs.
100. Plan a weekend morning for yourself.
101. Practice progressive muscle relaxation.

In the hustle of a full-time job and the demands of motherhood, finding moments for self-care ideas may seem out of reach. Juggling the role of a mom, especially for new parents or single mothers, often leaves little time for sleep, let alone a self-care routine. However, incorporating small steps, like deep breaths or a quick walk in the local park, can make a great difference. Balancing a busy lifestyle with better sleep, nutritious food, and even a simple indulgence like ice cream can positively impact overall health. Engaging in self-care, whether through an adult coloring book, a meditation app, or an audio book during a target run, contributes to a healthier, more balanced life. 

Final words

I want you to walk away from this article feeling empowered to create a life of self-care.  Moms are busy.  I get it!  I’ve been doing this for almost 21 years. (Yikes! My oldest is almost 21!)  But moms are also worn out!  I know this because I’ve seen it, and I’ve heard it over and over and over again. 

Our jobs as moms are not going to get any easier. Therefore, we have to be smarter about how we navigate our responsibilities.  We have to learn to put ourselves first sometimes. We can do that by creating a schedule, seeking help and support, learning to say no, and learning to love ourselves so that we can be the best moms that we can be!  Use these self-care tips for busy moms to start your self-care journey today.