There are days when I’ve been known to take my kids to school in my pajamas. Okay, let’s be honest—it’s more like every day. Usually, once I get back home, I shower and throw on something somewhat presentable. It might not be stylish, but at least I’m a little more put together.
However, there are those days when I pick my kids up still wearing the same pajamas I had on during drop-off. This is my unique way of practicing self-care. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine.
Some days, I just can’t summon the energy. I might spend the whole day in my PJs, binge-watching feel-good movies while I write. I snack on peanut butter straight from the jar and down Diet Cokes one after the other. Yes, I’m fortunate to work from home as a freelancer, which allows me the flexibility to carve out this time for myself—a luxury that many don’t have. I truly value this time for my mental health.
Our society often misinterprets self-care, especially for mothers. We can’t always juggle being the driver, housekeeper, cook, teacher, cheerleader, nurse, and pet caretaker. At some point, we need to reconnect with our true selves, even if it’s just for a few moments of selfishness.
I’m not suggesting a week-long getaway to a tropical paradise; most of us lack the time or resources for that. But a soothing bath or a quiet moment with a cup of coffee in the morning—those are manageable acts of self-care that everyone deserves.
For me, the pressure of being everything to everyone can feel suffocating. Even though my partner is actively involved with our kids, I still find myself overwhelmed at times. I have immense respect for single parents or those with less supportive partners; your strength is admirable.
If I don’t take a moment for myself now and then, I risk losing my cool. Believe me, I’ve had my moments—none of which are pleasant. Afterward, I feel awful, especially when I see the confusion or hurt in my children’s eyes. It’s not fair to them, so if staying in my pajamas is what helps me avoid that breakdown, I’m all in.
While my kids can be a source of stress, they aren’t to blame. My partner and I chose to raise a large family, and I know that with that decision comes responsibility. However, I sometimes lose sight of who I am in the process, and that’s where the challenge lies. I can’t forget myself.
There’s a part of me that craves cruising in my minivan while blasting rap music from the ’90s, reminiscing about simpler times. I want to stroll through Target solo, savoring the freedom of wandering the aisles without needing to answer questions or tend to a little one. I want an hour to get lost on TikTok, and I believe it’s necessary for all of us to indulge in that kind of time.
So, if you feel like staying in your pajamas all day, go for it. Would it be a dream to devour a whole order of McDonald’s fries without sharing? Treat yourself to that large fry and Diet Coke, and enjoy it in your driveway before heading back inside. Text a friend and meet at your favorite park from high school to reminisce. It’s important to take time for yourself—you deserve it. For more reflections on self-care, check out this post.
Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of self-care, particularly for parents who often juggle numerous responsibilities. The author shares personal experiences of staying in pajamas all day as a form of self-care, highlighting that taking time for oneself is essential for mental health. Small acts of indulgence, like enjoying a quiet moment or a favorite snack, can help restore balance in a busy life.
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Self-care, mental health, parenting, pajamas, personal experiences, balance, indulgence, freelance work, mothers, family responsibilities.