By Heidi Hess
The bench at the Orlando International Airport I was sitting on wasn’t entirely comfortable. The plastic slats were digging into the back of my legs, and the position of the seat that “supported” my back was such that if I leaned into it, it made my belly stick out. Not a flattering pose, but I wasn’t concerned with that right now. I sat back, pushed my dark sunglasses up the bridge of my nose, and closed my eyes. Just sitting in one spot for longer than 10 minutes was heaven. It was safe to say that life had me running at a furious pace. Was it self-imposed? A little. I mean, we are all out here trying to make things happen, trying to meet our goals. Add the extra responsibility of having a family to look after, and you have a recipe for an epic breakdown, a la Beth Dutton style. No one wants that.
I’m reminded of the flight attendants going over the emergency procedures. In the event that the cabin has lost pressure and you are unable to breathe, masks will fall from the ceiling to provide oxygen. Are you traveling with children? Make sure to put your mask on first and then assist other passengers. This scenario got it right. We need to put our masks on before we help anyone else. If we can’t breathe, what good are we to our loved ones? You’ll sit there and say these are extreme cases but shouldn’t we do this everyday? So, in the spirit of the New Year and all of the resolution garbage, maybe we should resolve to prioritize ourselves a few times a day. Here are ten ideas to help you recharge your battery or be that life-saving oxygen we moms need to keep going.
Start Your Morning with 10 Minutes of “Me Time”
Whether it’s journaling, stretching, or sipping coffee in silence—start the day with YOU.
Schedule a Monthly “Mom Day Out”
Plan one day a month just for yourself: a movie, shopping, or a café break.
Create a Daily Gratitude List
Jot down 3 things you’re thankful for before bed—it’s a mood booster.
Read for 10 Minutes a Day
Whether it’s a novel, magazine, or inspirational book, carve out time to get lost in words.
Invest in a Skincare Ritual
A simple 5- or 10-minute morning or evening routine feels indulgent but manageable.
Take a Weekly Walk Alone
Fresh air and quiet time can do wonders for your mind and energy.
Practice Saying “No” Without Guilt
Set boundaries when you’re feeling stretched thin. No requires no explanation.
Listen to an Audiobook or Podcast
While driving, folding laundry, or during downtime, enjoy content that inspires or entertains you.
Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode for an Hour
Disconnect to recharge—focus on something that brings you joy.
Buy Yourself Flowers
A small act that brightens your space and mood.
These are just a few random ideas to get you thinking. My hope for the New Year is that we moms take better care of ourselves. Our kids need to see us doing this. They mirror our actions and will, I hope, give themselves permission to prioritize their needs.
I think I’ll start right now. Or maybe right after this nap on the bench in the airport. After all, no one wants to see me in “Beth Dutton” mode.
Happy New Year!
