It’s a peaceful Monday afternoon at 2:00 PM, and my home is a sanctuary of quietude. My elder children are off at school, my toddler is peacefully napping, and my youngest is happily spending time at an in-home daycare. The reason? I hire a babysitter so I can indulge in some well-deserved rest.
Some might label this as laziness or self-indulgence. For me, however, it’s simply a practical choice. Take today, for instance. I enjoyed an episode of my favorite talk show on DVR, fully immersed in the discussions led by the hosts, free from any interruptions that come with parenting demands. I prepared a delicious lunch of gooey grilled cheese and Brussels sprouts, savoring every bite while it was hot—something many mothers rarely experience. Afterward, I brewed a fresh cup of coffee and treated myself to a piece of chocolate before diving into the week’s blog newsletter design.
On some days, I find myself writing articles, connecting with friends, or getting lost in a captivating book. Occasionally, I binge-watch series that are far from child-friendly. What I consciously avoid is household chores like washing dishes, sorting laundry, or preparing meals. My sole focus during this time is to engage in activities that bring me joy without any guilt.
I fully recognize and value that this is a privilege. Taking time for myself is not an entitlement but rather a necessity. I have faced two significant medical challenges in the last twelve years. The first occurred when I suddenly became gravely ill, losing weight rapidly and battling profound fatigue and depression. A trip to the emergency room revealed dangerously high blood sugar levels, leading to a near-fatal condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. The second health scare happened last summer when I discovered a lump in my breast, which, after further examination, turned out to be cancerous. I opted for a bilateral mastectomy, resulting in a lengthy recovery.
These experiences have left lasting imprints on my life. I will rely on an insulin pump indefinitely and will be monitored for potential cancer recurrence for at least the next decade. The emotional and spiritual aftermath of such trauma is profound and requires ongoing healing.
The time I carve out for myself allows me to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. I sometimes question whether it’s appropriate for me to take a break while others are hard at work or struggling financially. Yet, I remind myself of the importance of self-care. I work diligently every day to care for my four children and contribute to society through my writing.
Ultimately, I know that I can’t pour from an empty cup. If taking a few hours each week for myself is what it takes to replenish my energy, then that’s exactly what I will do. Perhaps true strength lies in recognizing our needs and taking responsibility for fulfilling them.
Regardless of your own challenges or life phase, you likely understand the importance of self-care for thriving—not merely surviving. When you muster the courage to prioritize your well-being, you make a positive choice for yourself. For more insights on this topic, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and to explore fertility options, visit this related blog post.
In summary, hiring a babysitter isn’t about shirking responsibilities; it’s about recognizing the vital need for personal downtime. This conscious choice allows me to recharge and maintain my overall well-being, enabling me to be the best version of myself for my family.