8 Ways Moms Can Actually Put Themselves First in 2017

Recognize that your child is going to remember all of the times you were there for them and not the hour a week that you weren't. Pursuing other interests will make you a more engaged and fulfilled mom when you are with them. This means the sacrifice is worth it because not only will you feel more enriched, but it will also help you to be a better parent and role model to your child — even if it means occasionally leaving them.

It's one thing to say that you are going to take time for yourself, but it's another thing to actually follow through. If you don't make it a priority, nobody else will, and it is up to you to set the precedence that Mommy needs her own time and there's nothing wrong with that.

Although leaving your child or missing some quality time with them for your own reasons might wrack you with guilt, don't let it, or else nothing positive will be accomplished. Don't allow yourself to feel badly about taking care of yourself because you need to be the best version of yourself in order to care for everyone else. But if you spend the time following your needs with anxiety over what you're missing, you'll just have missed out without gaining anything in return.

Taking some time for yourself, whether it's for a class or workout or just time to recharge, doesn't make you a selfish parent — it makes you a self-aware mom. It's important to understand that putting yourself first on occasion makes you a better role model by showing that a woman's wants and needs are equally valuable within the family.

If you get caught up with what everyone else is doing and how everyone else is parenting, you'll get trapped in an endless cycle of envy and guilt. Stop comparing yourself to others and start listening to your own needs and following through with them in a way that's best for your family and not based on what you think your peers would do.

Having a supportive partner who understands your ambitions and the importance of you having time away from being a mom is extremely helpful. However, you can't expect him or her to fully comprehend it, or also make it a priority, if you don't communicate with them. Setting up expectations and a support system with your spouse will make following through with Mom time much more realistic.

Stop asking other people their opinion on how you spend your time as a partner, mother, or individual person, and if they offer unsolicited advice, don't let any negativity sway you. If you block out the unwanted voices and find strength in knowing that you're doing what's best for both you and your family, Mom time may just actually happen and be guiltless!

If you don't get it in the calendar or on your computer, chances are you won't even bother when the time comes. Putting your plan in writing and blocking off that time not only makes it official, but also helps you to form this new routine so it becomes a habit instead of a chore.