Us women have it tough at times, in fact you could say we’ve drawn the short straw in many ways. As miraculous and wonderful as it is being able to essentially give life, carry and nurture a child, our male counterparts have it a lot easier! As women tend to be the primary caregiver for children too, this can also impact us in terms of our careers, social lives, hobbies and many other areas meaning we can fall into becoming solely a parent and losing ourselves in the process. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and you can still be an incredible mother while still holding on to the old ‘you’- you as a person, in the process. Here’s how you can go about it.
Take Care of Your Appearance
With a million and one other things to do in the morning when you have children, your appearance probably takes a back seat most days. But when you can, it’s nice to put a little effort in and your confidence will follow. It doesn’t have to be complicated, some foundation, mascara, bronzer and lipstick would only take a couple of minutes. The same applies to your hair, if you work with your natural texture and go for a low maintenance style you can get it looking nice without any fuss. For example, if you have curly hair you could scrunch through some mousse. If it’s straight, make it sleek by running straighteners over it for a couple of seconds. You’ll feel far more put together and when you catch sight of yourself in the mirror you’ll see the old you again.
Exercise
Exercise keeps you fit and healthy, perfect for keeping up with energetic kids. It also boosts self esteem, makes your brain release happy hormones and makes you look your best too. As it’s easier to control your weight when you’re burning extra calories, plus using your muscles will sculpt your body so you look more toned. When you’re an exhausted parent it can be tricky finding the energy to want to exercise, but you could try something like the curse pre workout. Pre workout contains caffeine giving you the boost you need and allowing you to get the most out of each session. If you didn’t want to hit the gym, how about attending a class, going swimming or on long family bike rides? Either way, looking after your body and maintaining a healthy weight will help you to feel more like yourself.
Maintain a Social Life
A night out when you’re a parent might not be a wild weekend of clubbing, but you should still make time for your friends when you can and arrange to get together. It could be Sunday brunch, an afternoon tea, a spa or shopping day. Keeping close bonds with friends helps you to remember who you are as a person and not just a parent. Plus it gives you a much needed and well deserved break, which everyone deserves now and again.
Go Back To Work
One way you can maintain your own identity is through your job or career. You might not have the means or desire to go back full time when you have children to look after, but you could always go part time. That way you keep your skills up for when you do return, and you’re bringing some extra money into the home too.
