“I Feel Guilty Taking Time For Myself”- A Letter For Every Busy Mom.

Hey, Mama.

Kelly Swartz- Mother, Wife & Entrepreneur

Kelly here. If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking time for yourself, trust me- you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, and some days, I still battle that little voice in my head telling me I should be doing something for someone else instead.

Because let’s be honest- being a mom means wearing a hundred different hats every day. There’s always a meal to cook, a mess to clean, a lunchbox to pack, a little hand reaching for yours… and somehow, in between all of that, you’re supposed to find time for yourself? It almost feels selfish, right?

But here’s what I’ve learned: taking care of myself is actually one of the best things I can do for my family.

Why Do We Feel Guilty?

I used to believe that being a “good mom” meant giving everything I had to my child- every ounce of energy, every spare moment, every bit of love and care. And I still do, but I’ve realized that when I give everything away without refueling, I end up running on empty.

The truth is, we can’t pour from an empty cup. When we’re exhausted, stressed, or running on caffeine and leftover crusts from our kid’s sandwich, we aren’t showing up as the best version of ourselves.

Taking Time for Yourself Isn’t Selfish- It’s Necessary

When I started carving out time for myself- whether it was a quick workout, a solo coffee run, or even just five minutes of deep breathing in the bathroom before my toddler found me- I noticed a shift.

• I was more patient with my child.

• I had more energy throughout the day.

• I started feeling like me again, not just “mom.”

Taking time for yourself doesn’t mean you love your family any less. It means you’re refueling so you can continue being the amazing mom you already are.

How to Make Time for Yourself Without the Guilt

1. Start Small

It doesn’t have to be a spa day or a two-hour gym session. Even 10-15 minutes of something that makes you feel good (a quick walk, a stretch, a cup of tea alone) can make a difference.

2. Remind Yourself That You Deserve It

You work hard, Mama. Taking time for yourself isn’t an extra- it’s a necessity. A healthy, happy mom = a healthy, happy home.

3. Let Go of the “Perfect Mom” Standard

There’s no such thing as a perfect mom, but there is such a thing as a happy, balanced one.

4. Include Your Kids When You Can

If you struggle to find alone time, try including them in things that recharge you- like a family walk, a fun kitchen dance party, or a 5-minute meditation together.

5. Remember: Your Kids Are Watching

One of the most powerful things we can teach our children is self-care and balance. By taking time for ourselves, we show them that it’s okay to prioritize well-being.

You Are More Than “Mom”

I know it’s hard to step away when you feel like everyone needs you. But YOU deserve to be taken care of too- and sometimes, that means doing it for yourself.

So, Mama, the next time you feel guilty for taking a moment for yourself, I want you to pause and reframe that thought. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s an act of love- for you and for your family.

You’ve got this. And you deserve this.

With love,

A Fellow Mom Who’s Learning Too

Kelly Swartz