A Weekend Away Was Just What I Needed to Recharge from Mom Burnout

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After binge-watching a few episodes of “What If” on Disney Plus, the new Marvel series that reimagines iconic moments from the franchise, I found myself pondering a different scenario: What if moms flipped the script on their families? Instead of our children making a run for it, what if we took off for a weekend of solitude?

What if I treated myself to a hotel stay, indulging in my favorite shows without constant interruptions? Would it be worth the cost? Would the aftermath be chaotic once I returned? The only way to find out was to go for it! So, I did just that—I escaped to a hotel for a weekend of peace.

Armed with my favorite snacks, I spent the entire weekend enjoying my shows. Why? Because I absolutely deserve it! And honestly, every mom should treat herself to at least one weekend away each year, if not monthly.

This is your nudge, fellow moms: take that break! Spend some time alone, away from the kids and, let’s be honest, that wonderful but demanding partner who also has needs. It might sound outrageous to pay for some quiet time, but can you really put a price on peace? Imagine an entire weekend of blissful silence, just you and your favorite shows, indulging in snacks without little hands reaching out for a bite.

Picture waking up at 9 a.m.—yes, 9, not 6—and flipping your pillow to the cool side, savoring the luxury of another hour of sleep, free from anyone begging you to make breakfast. I want that for you!

Like many of you, I was initially skeptical about leaving my family. The thought of returning to a messy house after my absence made me hesitate. However, this brilliant idea was sparked not solely by Marvel but by a friend, Jessica, who unapologetically prioritizes her own time away every few months.

Jessica taught me that stepping back for a weekend is not just okay, but essential. And you know what? She was spot on! I had an incredible weekend—ordering food for one, lounging in bed, binge-watching Netflix’s “Clickbait” and catching up on “What If.” By the time Sunday rolled around, I was excited to reunite with my daughter (even if she dislikes me calling her “my baby”).

That little staycation rejuvenated me, giving me the energy to tackle our first week back at school after a long stretch of virtual learning. I woke up early, ready for the day, without a hint of resentment, knowing my nap days were behind me.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to take a break, this is it! Go ahead and book that weekend away; enjoy a moment free from chores, demands, and that nagging mom guilt. After the challenges of recent years, it’s time to reclaim our joy—safely, of course, with masks and sanitizers in hand. Plan your getaway, because you absolutely deserve it!

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