I’ve never been to circus school, but if there’s an opening for a mum who can juggle everything (literally and figuratively), I’d be top of the list! Between meal planning, remembering to pay bills, and keeping track of everything my little one needs, sometimes I think I should get a clown nose and join the show. Seriously, is there a circus out there paying mums for being mums? I’d take that gig in a heartbeat.
From the moment you wake up (often because your child has decided that 5 a.m. is the new 7 a.m.) to when you finally get a second to close your eyes at night (and maybe during that middle-of-the-night wakeup), your life is a whirlwind of them—and it can feel like there’s no time left for you. But here’s the deal: as we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about how to get a little balance. Yes, your child will always come first (and that’s okay), but guess what? You matter too. A healthy, happy mum is the secret ingredient to a thriving, happy family. So, let’s take a moment to think about how we can fill our own cup while keeping all the other cups from crashing to the floor.
Here’s how you can set yourself up for success in 2025 and make sure you’re prioritising both your little one’s needs and your own self-care.
Reflect on the Past Year
Before we dive into all the “new year, new me” stuff, take a moment to look back at the year that was. How did you feel, physically and emotionally? Did you have moments when you were just done? Overwhelmed? Burnt out? Or maybe there were those little moments of pure joy that gave you that boost of energy you didn’t even know you needed.
For me, 2024 had its challenges. Like my son’s 7-month sleep regression (you know, the one where he was waking up 7 times a night? Yeah, that was fun). I spent nights tossing and turning in guilt, thinking, “Why can’t I just get him to sleep through the night?” But then, there were the heart-melting moments too—when he’d surprise me with a cuddle or make me laugh with something totally random. Those moments of connection gave me energy, reminding me why I do this gig.
Take some time to jot down your reflections. What did you learn? What worked and what didn’t? What small changes can you make that will help you feel less stressed and more energised in 2025? Maybe it’s as simple as asking for help more often or sneaking in regular “me time.” Taking note of your needs can help you make this year a little easier to navigate.
Personally, I’ve started making myself a matcha latte while my son naps. It’s the little things, right? It gives me a caffeine boost (yes, please) and also a few minutes of stillness that are just for me. Tiny change, big impact.
Okay mama so here is what you can try:
Set Realistic Expectations
As a mum, you are the queen of multi-tasking. But even the best jugglers drop a ball every now and then, right? It’s okay if your expectations aren’t sky-high. Trying to do everything perfectly will leave you feeling burnt out and, honestly, a little crazy.
Let go of the guilt that comes with taking time for yourself. You’re still a fantastic mum when you ask for help or take a break. Setting realistic expectations means not trying to do it all—no, you don’t need a pristine house or a Pinterest-worthy schedule. Focus on the things that matter most: your child’s health, happiness, and your own mental well-being. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.
Make Time for Self-Care
Okay, let’s get this out there: self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and facials (although I’m not complaining if I get those too). For us mums, self-care looks different depending on what we need at the moment. Some days it’s a walk in the fresh air, other days it’s just 10 minutes to read a book or scroll Instagram without someone asking for snacks. Whatever it is, make it a priority, even if it’s just small pockets of time.
Here’s how to make it happen:
- Morning Rituals: Try to carve out a few minutes for yourself before the day kicks off. A quiet cup of coffee, a bit of deep breathing, or some morning gratitude—it’s like a reset button before the chaos.
- Mindful Moments: Snag a few moments of mindfulness during the day, whether you’re in the middle of cleaning, cooking, or juggling a toddler’s meltdown. Even just a few deep breaths can help ground you.
Movement: Moving your body, even for a few minutes, can do wonders for your mood. Whether it’s stretching, yoga, or a quick walk, find some time to get moving. Bonus points if you can do it with your little one!
Communicate with Your Partner (or Your Support Crew)
Let’s face it: raising a child is not a solo job. If you’ve got a partner or a support system, don’t be shy about asking for help. Whether it’s taking over bedtime duties, watching the kid for an hour, or running an errand, sharing responsibilities is a game-changer.
Don’t have a built-in support network? Seek out other mums in your community (our Social Mama community). A few friends who can trade off childcare duties, offer a listening ear, or just help with a grocery run can make a world of difference. Trust me, you’re not in this alone, even if it sometimes feels like you are.
Prioritise Your Mental Health
Motherhood comes with a whole range of emotional ups and downs. It’s normal to have tough days, but don’t forget to take care of your emotional well-being. Talk to a therapist, join a mum’s group, or even take a few minutes to journal when you’re feeling stressed. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and it’s worth the time and effort to nurture it.
If journaling helps, write down your thoughts and feelings. It’s a great way to clear your mind and process everything that’s going on. And remember: you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. This is just a season, and it’s okay not to have all the answers.
Set Family-Focused Goals
While setting goals is usually about doing the “big things,” don’t forget about family goals that bring you closer together. These goals don’t have to be monumental—maybe it’s scheduling weekly family walks, having more family dinners, or just planning fun weekend activities. Little goals like these strengthen your bond and contribute to everyone’s well-being, including your own.
Also, remember that by prioritising self-care, you’re teaching your child an important lesson in balance and well-being. You don’t have to do it all, and you can show them that taking care of yourself is part of being a good parent.
Celebrate the “Small” Wins
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate the little wins. As mums, we often feel like progress is slow, but every win counts. Whether it’s a few minutes of quiet, getting through the day without a meltdown, or actually getting a nap in (hallelujah!), take a moment to recognise it. You’re doing an amazing job, and those “small” victories are big ones in my book.
It’s All About Balance
Motherhood is beautiful, chaotic, and full of challenges. While it’s natural to put your child’s needs first, don’t forget about you. This year, work on finding balance by prioritising self-care alongside your little one’s needs. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to care for your family.
Here’s to a year of growth, laughter, and learning how to juggle it all (even if sometimes you drop a ball or two). You’ve got this, mama!
