Several months ago, a professor shared an interesting article with me about the impact of parent burnout. As a mother, wife, professional, and student juggling multiple roles, the article deeply resonated with me, raising a crucial question: how do we balance our family's well-being with our own?
The article defined burnout as the result of "too much stress and the absence of resources to cope with it." - Dr. Isabelle Roskam. In the hustle of life, finding balance becomes critical.
After reading the article, I found myself contemplating the same question that plagues many parents: how do I find balance, especially during life's most complex moments? Soon after, I attended a book event for one of my favorite authors and influencers, Tabitha Brown, celebrating the release of her new book "I Did A New Thing." Honestly, it had been a long, challenging day, and I almost did not attend the event, but I'm grateful I did. Tabitha's wisdom and the inspiration from her book motivated me to intentionally prioritize my well-being.
I decided to commit 30 minutes daily to something that brings me joy and explore something entirely new at least once a month. While I'm still working on exploring something new monthly, dedicating 30 minutes daily to my well-being has made a significant impact. As a mother, this commitment has extended beyond personal well-being, creating a reset that nurtures patience and presence in family interactions. It became a small yet powerful way of self-love that resulted positively throughout our home.
The idea of dedicating a day each month to something entirely new may initially feel too ambitious, BUT it is a promise to yourself to embrace some of the things you have always wanted to do but have not had the time or maybe the courage to do. Whether it's trying a new hobby, trying different food, or taking a spontaneous day trip – TRY A NEW THING.
As we navigate life's complexities, it's essential to remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. Finding harmony within ourselves equips us to create harmony within our families and, ultimately, our lives. The journey to conquer Parent Burnout and reclaim balance is unique for everyone, but it starts with acknowledging the need for self-care. By embracing the 30 minutes of daily joy and a monthly exploration of something new, we can create a sustainable rhythm that nurtures our families and ourselves.
As we embrace the concept of "I Did A New Thing," let's remember that small changes can lead to significant transformations. I challenge you to take a moment each day for yourself and, once a month, step outside your comfort zone and explore something new. By prioritizing our well-being, we not only enrich our own lives but also create a more fulfilling family dynamic.
