Balancing Parenthood & Self-Care: Tips for Busy Moms & Dads

Because Taking Care of Yourself is Taking Care of Them

Before becoming a mom, I knew parenthood would be a lot. But nothing could have prepared me for the beautiful, chaotic, all-consuming reality of it. The early wake-ups, the never-ending to-do lists, the snacks—oh my goodness, the snacks! Between caring for my little ones, managing our home, and building our business, self-care often feels like a luxury that’s just out of reach.

But here’s what I’ve learned: when I don’t take care of myself, everything else suffers. My patience runs thin, my energy dips, and suddenly, the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. It’s taken time (and a lot of trial and error), but I’ve realized that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, I see you. And I want to share a few things that have helped me actually make time for myself while still being the best parent I can be.

1. Redefining Self-Care

Before kids, self-care might have meant a spa day or sleeping in. Now? It’s stolen moments of quiet, small habits that fill my cup, and giving myself grace on the hard days.

Here’s what self-care really looks like in this season of life:

✔ Drinking my tea while it’s still warm (even if it means waking up 10 minutes earlier).

✔ Listening to my favorite album on a drive—alone.

✔ Going on dates with my better half.

✔ Taking five deep breaths before responding when I feel overwhelmed.

✔ Setting boundaries with work and home life.

Some days, I get 30 minutes to myself. Other days, self-care is simply taking a deep breath before my kids push me over the edge. Both count.

2. Building Self-Care into Your Routine

Let’s be real: parents don’t just find time for themselves—it has to be intentional. Here’s how I squeeze self-care into my busy schedule:

✔ Pair it with something you already do. If you’re making school lunches, listen to a music that gets you pumped up for the day. If you’re in the car, call a friend (or your mom, which always works for me)..

✔ Make it a family thing. Walks after dinner, family movie nights, or stretching while your toddler plays nearby—it all counts.

✔ Ask for help. Find a babysitter and schedule a “you” day, or lean on your partner for support.

✔ Do what actually works for you. If baths aren’t your thing, don’t force it. Find what feels good, not just what social media says counts as self-care.

3. Give Yourself Grace

Some days, I feel like a supermom. Other days? My patience is thin, my house is a disaster, and I let my kids have way too much screen time. And that’s okay. We are not meant to pour from an empty cup.

So, to the parents out there running on fumes: you deserve rest, joy, and moments just for you. Take care of yourself—not just for your kids, but for you.

♥️ Playfully yours, your mom-friend in fun, Lynne