Taking Care of Others Means Taking Care of Yourself

 Have you ever heard the term “take care of yourself before you take care of others”? There’s a reason why self-care is so important! If you’ve let yourself run into the ground, you won’t be able to effectively help others too!

As moms and caretakers (that includes teaching!), we wear what seems like hundreds of different hats—nurse, chef, janitor, chauffeur, therapist, teacher, and the list goes on. We pour so much into our families that it often feels like there’s nothing left for ourselves. But here’s the truth: taking care of others starts with taking care of YOU.

You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup

It’s easy to push our own needs to the back burner. There’s always another lunch to pack, another load of laundry to fold, another bedtime story to read. But when we neglect ourselves, exhaustion creeps in, and burnout follows. And when you’ve hit rock bottom burnout – it’s not a pretty sight. Just like we remind our kids to eat their vegetables and get enough sleep, we need to give ourselves that same care.

I don’t want my daughter growing up seeing a mom who is constantly frazzled and stressed and slumming it while she works around the clock. I want her to learn that although you should work hard and care for those around you, you also need to take care of yourself so you can extend your work and love around to others. It’s taking baby steps to a lifestyle change.

Small Steps Make a Big Difference

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be overwhelming – although it can certainly feel like it when you’re burnt out. Even just brushing your hair can seem pointless and a chore. Try small, sustainable changes. Don’t focus on fixing the whole picture. Change ONE small thing at a time and take each day step by step.

Prioritize rest – Sleep deprivation isn’t a badge of honor. Goodness knows I love my late nights, this has been a hard one for me. Make rest a priority whenever possible. I’ve had to learn (and am still learning!) how to embrace resting and not feel lazy.

Be intentional – Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, a few deep breaths while you’re running to the bathroom, or a quick stretch throughout the day, grounding yourself in the morning sets the tone for the day. I always thought those silly mantras were goofy to actually say out loud, but I really started to own them after a while. Find what works for you!

Move your body – A walk, yoga, or even a dance party in the kitchen can boost your mood and energy. For me, it’s making sure I take the dog on a walk every day – even if it’s just one block!

Stay connected – Call a friend, sign up for a class (for free classes look at the library or even Facebook marketplace or Eventbrite!), or simply text someone else who lifts you up.

Teaching by Example

Our children learn by watching us – they KNOW when you’re stressed out. Don’t believe me? If you’re always wearing comfy t-shirts and you don’t do your hair ever – try wearing a nice shirt and fixing your hair – I promise the kids will notice! Mine sure do!

When we prioritize our well-being, we show them that self-care is important. We model healthy habits, resilience, and self-respect.

So, mama, this is your gentle reminder: You matter. You are worthy of care, love, and rest. No matter what. Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Because when you thrive, so does your family.

Other Ways I’m Making Positive Changes in My Routine:

• Embracing a healthier lifestyle. Baby steps here! Drink more water, make better choices, cook from scratch more, park farther from the store entrance to walk more – take care of yourself! I started mixing in chicory with my coffee for a healthier morning drink! Baby steps!
• Fixing my hair. OK – this may seem a little ridiculous – unless you’re like me and just throw your hair up in a pony tail every single day. Did I say EVERY single day – yep! It only takes 10-15 minutes max to do but it not only makes me FEEL better but I feel like I look better too so it gives me a huge boost of confidence and determination. EVEN if it just means a fancier ponytail! I like to add a little jewelry once in a while too!
• Spending quality time with EACH of my children every single day – even on the busy ones. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 5 hours! Get off those electronics!! Remember, your kids are watching and modeling you!
• Nature is life! I have taken up such an intense interest in the wildlife around us and spent much of my last ten years installing butterfly gardens, growing vegetables and putting up a variety of bird feeders. Instead of me just running outside to garden, I purposefully take my kids out there with me and let them grow things too!

As teachers and moms you give SO much but are you taking care of yourself? Share how you’re caring for yourself and inspire others to do the same!

 

 

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