As a mum of two energetic school-aged boys, I often find it hard to carve out even 10 minutes of time for myself each day. It may sound silly, but when I reflect on my daily routine, it seems that I’m constantly on the go, juggling household chores, work, and taking care of everyone else. Just when I think I’ve got a few moments to unwind—perhaps to sip a hot coffee or catch up on my reading—the kids inevitably start causing mayhem, and I’m pulled back into the whirlwind of responsibilities.
But here’s the thing: those 10 minutes to yourself are crucial. It’s not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for your well-being. You may think that it’s impossible to carve out such brief moments for yourself, but trust me, it’s worth every bit of effort.
Why You Need Those 10 Minutes
We all know the feeling of being perpetually busy—whether it’s running errands, preparing meals, helping with homework, or dealing with a thousand other little tasks. As a parent, there is always someone else to care for, and the list of things to do never seems to end. In the midst of all this, we can lose sight of our own needs.
That’s why carving out just 10 minutes each day—yes, just 10—can make such a huge difference in your mental and emotional health. It might not sound like a lot, but those moments of quiet give you the space to recharge, reset, and refocus. When you allow yourself these few minutes, you remind yourself that you are not just a caretaker or a worker—you are an individual with your own needs and desires.
The Struggle of Finding ‘Me Time’
One of the biggest challenges for busy parents is making time for themselves without feeling guilty. It’s all too easy to push your own needs to the backburner in favor of others. I remember talking with a fellow mum, Michelle Reeves, a few weeks ago about the importance of finding time for yourself. She shared her own strategy of waking up a little earlier than usual to enjoy some quiet time before the chaos of the day begins.
Inspired by our conversation, I decided to try waking up 30 minutes earlier than my usual time. My typical wake-up time is 6:30 a.m., but I thought I’d set my alarm for 6 a.m. and use that extra half-hour to sip a hot coffee, enjoy some peace, and maybe even catch up on the news.
The First Attempt: A Wake-Up Call
The first morning I decided to try this new routine, I was hopeful. My alarm went off at 6 a.m., and I quickly turned it off to avoid waking my husband. I tiptoed out of bed and into the bathroom, doing everything as quietly as possible. After all, the last thing I wanted was to wake the boys before I had even gotten my first sip of coffee!
I made my way downstairs, carefully avoiding the creaky step, and entered the kitchen. I quietly boiled the kettle, praying that the sound wouldn’t reach the kids. With my coffee in hand, I opened the kitchen door, thinking I could sneak into the living room for a few peaceful moments.
And there he was.
Sitting on the stairs with the biggest grin on his face was my son, LP. Now, don’t get me wrong—I could never be disappointed to see that smile. But in that moment, I felt a little let down that my attempt to get some time to myself had been thwarted before it had even begun.
Why We Must Keep Trying
While that first attempt didn’t exactly go according to plan, it was a reminder of how important it is to continue making time for yourself—even if it doesn’t always go smoothly. The truth is, it’s easy to feel defeated when things don’t work out the way we imagine, but the key is persistence.
It’s not always about getting the perfect quiet time, but about setting aside moments in our day to relax and rejuvenate, no matter how brief. Sometimes, even a few minutes of peace can give us the mental clarity and energy we need to be better parents, better partners, and better versions of ourselves.
How I Make It Work
Since that initial attempt, I’ve been trying to find creative ways to sneak in those 10 minutes of “me time.” Sometimes, it’s waking up earlier (though that doesn’t always work), other times, it’s taking a quick break during the afternoon when the kids are playing or watching a show. And on some days, it’s as simple as locking myself in the bathroom for a few minutes of uninterrupted peace.
The key is to prioritize those moments, even if they seem small. By making time for ourselves, we not only recharge our own batteries but also set an important example for our children: that self-care is essential.
The Benefits of 10 Minutes Alone
Even though 10 minutes might not sound like much, it can truly work wonders for your mental health. Here’s how:
- Improved Mental Health: Taking a brief break from the constant demands of daily life can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Increased Productivity: By recharging your mind and body, you’re better equipped to handle your tasks with renewed energy and focus.
- Better Relationships: When you take time for yourself, you return to your family with more patience and presence, leading to stronger connections.
- A Sense of Accomplishment: Just taking 10 minutes to sit quietly or enjoy a cup of coffee can give you a sense of control and achievement.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the 10-Minute Rule
Life as a busy mum can feel overwhelming at times, but carving out just 10 minutes for yourself each day is a small yet powerful act of self-care. Whether it’s a quiet coffee, a few pages of a book, or simply breathing in the silence, these moments are essential to your well-being.
So, if you’re reading this and thinking, “I never have time for myself,” I encourage you to try it—just 10 minutes. You deserve it, and it’ll make a world of difference.