There is so much to do! Work to be done, emails to respond to, dinner to make, laundry to do, and you still want to spend quality time with your loved ones. There is no time left! Taking time for yourself feels selfish.
So why bother? Why does it matter? I’m sure you have all heard the saying “you can’t pour from an empty cup”. And its true. But it goes beyond this. Have you noticed how much more you get accomplished and not to mention how much better your relationships are when you are in a good place mentally? The way you are able to respond to your spouse or children in a calmer, more patient way when you feel grounded and centered.
There are endless debates out there about the best way to raise kids. Breastfeed or bottle feed? Cloth diapers or disposable? Use time-outs or don’t? Public school, private school, or homeschool? Sports or scouts? Or both?
But in all the research do you know what was the biggest predictor of positive outcomes for kids??
How well adjusted their parents are.
The biggest thing you can do to support your kids’ mental health and long-term success is to take care of your own!
Counter intuitive I know, but it makes sense. When we have time and patience for ourselves, we have more time and patience for others. And not only that, but you teach your kids how to care for themselves by demonstrating how you do it! How did your kids learn how to walk? By watching others do it! So how will your kids learn that they matter and that it is important to take time for themselves? By watching you do it!
What is one small thing you can do for yourself this week? And in turn you are doing something for your loved ones as well! And any time you need reminded, I am here for you. Self-care matters.
Theresa Leskowat MS LPC is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist in Charlotte, NC. She is also Founder and Owner of Clear Vista Counseling. Theresa specializes in working with clients to help them manage anxiety and stress. Theresa also provides divorce counseling, therapy for anxiety, therapy for perfectionists, and therapy for stress management.