How do you carve out time for yourself "without feeling guilty" when you are a working single parent?

Answer 1

I WANT my mother to make time for herself. I want her to be less stressed. I want her to take care of herself. You would be doing a favor for your child(ren) if you had some time to chill. He/She/They want a happy mommy.

Answer 2

It's hard, but you just do it. If there's a relative or a friend who can take your kid(s) for a little bit, once a week even, so you can relax and take some you-time, go for it. It's nothing to feel guilty about - I would feel more guilty if I didn't take the time out and then ended up snapping on my kids because of it, you know? And even if it's only an hour at first, and then a couple hours the next time, and then they go for an overnight visit after awhile - it gives you time away from them, they get to go have fun with Mom hanging over their shoulders, and when you all come back home, you have something new to share stories about :)

Answer 3

If you don't make some time for yourself you will take out your frustration on your children. That doesn't mean you should neglect your children but your mental health is important for the mental health and stability of your children.
You can find other things for the kids to do, like go on trips wth the church, after school activities, sleep overs or visits to Grandma etc... that give them social skills while allowing you a respite. This also hold true for older people who are taking care of relatives that are incapacitated.
Two movies Lorenzo's Oil and As good as it Gets have themes where a parent is caring for a sick child and become overwelmed at some point.

Answer 4

I am not a parent, let alone a single one. However i do run a child care and i think alot of my single moms have the same problem. Look, i think that most of the moms (even the married ones) feel some kind of guilt when they leave their child(ren) Its perfectly normal and you should not feel bad. As parents i am sure you first priority is to the kids, but i have seen moms who have become so razzeld because they never took times for themselves. Do you know other moms and dads? maybe you could switch play dates. one day for a few hrs or whatever you choose your child(ren) could go play with somebodies Else children and vice versa. Most parent know say they feel guilty about something or the other, but you have to think about you as well. esp when you don't have a partner to help you out. I am sure you are a loving caring mom and i am sure you children think the same.

Answer 5

Honestly, this is a tough one. I'm a single parent too---have been since my 13 yr old daughter was three---and I've taken more flack from my parents about anything I did for myself than you can imagine. But what I know is, I'm a better Mom if I have a little time to do things I want to do, and need for myself, so once a month I go get a manicure & pedicure, and occasionally I go out with a girlfriend...and as of a year and a half ago, I have a Sweetheart that is fantastic---and I make time for HIM, because the relationship makes me complete and so much better for my child. Good luck to you---do ti for yourself, dear...your child will learn from your example how to take care of herself/himself.

Answer 6

In the beginning (up until they are old enough to go to preschool) My best time was once they were asleep. Now that they are older 3&8 they are in school full day and I take time for myself on my week days off. I also hsve learned to incorporate them into my time if need be. Parenting is sacrifice;) Me and my mother have a special "me time" deal we work out to where she keeps them for a little while so I can also have time for myself. Never feel guilty. We've got to have time for ourselves to be anything productive, or nurturing to our children. Hope I helped.

Answer 7

You have to believe that you are worth it to take time for yourself. You should not feel guilty in any way, shape, or form. You owe it to yourself and your kids to take a break every now and then. In order for you to stay sane and healthy for you and your kids, you need to de-stress every once in a while. Believe it or not, your kids need to have time with out you too. It is okay to hire a baby sitter even if it is to go shopping, get a pedicure, or get some drinks with friends. You owe ot to yourself! Have fun and Good Luck!

Answer 8

Guilt is a natural part of parenting. Learn to live with it. As far as finding "me" time--you NEED it. Sometimes, it might be something as simple as an extra long shower. Other times, it might be a night out on the town.

Children are a lifelong commitment. We, as parents need to occasionally recharge our batteries and call a time out. If you give yourself this permission on the occasion, your children could benefit in the long run.

Answer 9

Think of it as mental health time or time to make yourself a better parent. You will be more effective and a better person for your children if you give yourself some time alone. You are human as wall as a parent and need to take care of yourself also.

Answer 10

you should never feel guilty about having alone time. I am having my alone time right now, at this computer while everyone is asleep. Sometimes early in the morning with a newspaper and java outside listening to the birds. You can find yours too even if it is 30 min.

Answer 11

realize that this time for your self will help you connect with yourself and relaize things you like and improve your attitude and capacity to care when it is time for other people.
a car serves the driver but the driver must take care of it

don't feel guilty about giving yourself a tune up every once in a while