Summer Survival Kit: Self Care

By. Teresa Marchant

Now that my children are grown, I feel like I am the expert on what NOT to do! While raising my children and growing in my career, I experienced so much guilt. I was constantly being stretched in both roles. At times, I felt I was merely surviving and mediocre at everything I tried to accomplish.

When my children were finally old enough to be in school, things seemed better because they attended school with me. However, this was a challenge as well. I instantly had to switch roles from being their mom to teacher and at the end of the day from teacher back to mom.

There was little time for me as I managed 6 children in a blended household and taught full-time. Looking back I seriously don’t know how I managed had I not had the support of my husband. He encouraged me to take care of myself! I would take a trip to get my nails done or go out with friends, but it wasn’t enough. I was exhausted and still didn’t feel satisfied. It wasn’t until I started running (I use that term loosely) that I changed my thoughts on self care. I realized self care is more. It is focusing on your mental self and letting go of negative feelings or self talk. Taking time for yourself is important, but self care involves introspection.

Self care is vital to your career, health, and those around you. But what exactly is self care and what it looks like depends on you! Self care moments should include

S-scheduled mental breaks
E-enjoying the moment
L-letting go of guilt
F-finding something you enjoy

As you take time to reflect on your attitude or feelings, learn to let go of guilt, try new hobbies and laugh, you will discover what you need to take better care of yourself. Being able to separate yourself for 5 minutes and be free of guilt is so refreshing!

I am still trying to discover who I am with my various roles including mom and teacher. However, as we care for ourselves we are better able to do jobs including those within our own homes and school districts.