It's January, and while some of us have already abandoned our resolutions, I've noticed that a high number of moms choose self-care as their hopeful aim for the new year. We want to get fit, eat right, get enough sleep, or cut back on wine and caffeine. All of these are admirable goals that will indeed make our bodies stronger and healthier. However, I would argue that there is a form of self-care that is even more important and much more fun to stick to:
The very best thing that us moms can do for ourselves is find time to connect with our friends.
What if making time to grab a cup of coffee with a friend was as high of a priority as hitting the gym? Or better yet, treated with the same importance as getting your baby to his wellness checks or your child to soccer practice?
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It's easy to push our friendships to the side. We assume, often rightly, that our friends will understand, they are crazy busy too. It's hard to steal time away that feels quite indulgent. It means hanging with friends instead of tackling a huge list of errands or chores. It requires asking our husbands to watch the kids or arranging childcare. Quality time with friends often means time away from our family, which can make us feel guilty. But all of these excuses should be ignored. Strong relationships make us feel happier, more connected, and less anxious and alone.
Good friends make you feel like your best self, they remind you that you're more than the number of months you breastfed or the way you react to a tantrum.
Next time you feel too tired, or too busy, call a friend and find time to connect. Even if you can't coordinate an epic girls night out, you can chat on the phone like teenagers, and you can hang up feeling loved and understood. And if you feel as though you need more women in your life, seek them out. Join a club or better yet, start one. Reach out and connect, you will find friends and they will make you feel great about yourself in a way bootcamp never could.
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Good friends make you feel like your best self, they remind you that you're more than the number of months you breastfed or the way you react to a tantrum. We leave a night with friends ready to conquer whatever the next day brings with fresh perspective. In short, it makes us better moms. Plus, laughing with friends burns loads of calories and it doesn't require burpees. Now that's the kind of self-care resolution we can all get behind!
