Home > Health > Mind > 7 Ways To Put Yourself First Without Getting Mum Guilt 

Most mornings, we’ve fed and cleaned a few small humans before getting anywhere near a hot coffee. 

And before we even think about ourselves, work, or whatever else is going on that day, there’s a mountain of kid-related tasks we need to tick through. 

But what if you could put yourself first, and still look after the kids?

Try working in at least one of the following tips into your week and create a new schedule that centres more around you.

7 Ways to Put Yourself First Without Getting Mum Guilt

1. Walk The Kids to School or Nursery Once a Week
1. Walk The Kids to School or Nursery Once a Week

Even if the drive is a real schlep, try parking a little further away and enjoy a short stroll in. It sounds like a waste of time, but it is scientifically proven that natural light suppresses melatonin (the sleep-inducing hormone), which means getting out into the daylight during your waking hours can help you feel less angry. Weather looking a bit unappealing? Always prepare yourself with the right coat and kit so that it’s still enjoyable.

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2. No Morning Commute? Try This...
2. No Morning Commute? Try This…

Ahh what most stay-at-home or work-from-home folk would give for a long train journey in. Get a slice of the pie and have a coffee or tea outside. And either walk to get it or make one and take it with you. Trust us, taking five or ten minutes to take a breather will make a world of difference to your mind.
Children chained to you? That’s OK! The fresh air will still reset your brain and prepare you for the day ahead.

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3. Fill Your Cup by Meeting Other Mums
3. Fill Your Cup by Meeting Other Mums

There’s no better feeling than being with other mums that get you. At TMC we create a safe and supportive space where all women are welcome. Come with baby, bump or on your own. You won’t regret it.

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4. Get Outside More
4. Get Outside More

Being outside is a natural anti-depressant. It helps calm the mind and body, improves breathing, and helps connect you back to yourself.
To help you remember, try coinciding it with your lunch or book into one of our walking clubs.
Even if you’re eating food from home, a change of scenery will make all the difference. Generally if we miss that sweet spot at lunch, it’s common that we tend to leave it too late and never go and making a plan to go for a walk with a friend or to one of our clubs, means you have a reason not to cancel or put it off.

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5. Use Your Downtime to Put Dates in Your Diary
5. Use Your Downtime to Put Dates in Your Diary

Instead of using downtime to scroll Instagram or order kids’ clothes, make some plans for you.
Look into activities you can do once the kids are in bed. Whether it’s the cinema on a Monday or yoga or swimming on a Wednesday, life still exists outside your home and if you have a partner at home, then there’s nothing stopping you from plotting a few things in while the children sleep. It doesn’t have to be long. Even a 30 min activity that lets you be you, will give you the biggest boost.

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6. Book a Break
6. Book a Break

It doesn’t have to be an elaborate 3 day trip to Ibiza. A day or night at a spa or doing an activity together like open water swimming or seeing a show, is enough to make you feel like you’ve had some time away. Pin that friend down and go. And if no one is free, then go on your own. We love the company of friends but sometimes a solo trip is the best feeling ever. So don’t let other people’s diaries stand in your way.

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7. Make a You Hour Every Weekend
7. Make a You Hour Every Weekend

Let everyone know that on Sunday or Saturday at XX’O’Clock, is YOUR time off. This could be anything from going to have a very long bath, getting a coffee with a friend, or booking in for a yoga or spin class.
While you might feel obliged to see your family all weekend, we promise that having enough you time will refill your cup and help you ‘Mum’ better.

7 Ways to Prioritise Yourself

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