It can be tough to find time for activities you love when you're working full-time and have kids. But it's important to make time for yourself, even if it's just a little bit each day. Here are a few tips:
Set priorities
What's most important to you? Your family, your job, your hobbies? Once you know what's most important, you can start to make time for the things that matter most. People are always talking about a "work-life-balance." Someone really wise (my husband) likes to say "balance in all things- including balance". Don't try to overdue life. I promise you that some takeout after the park is just as good as a home cooked meal you made while your kids zoned out on YouTube.
Be realistic
Don't expect to be able to do everything you used to do before you had kids. You have less time now, so you need to be realistic about what you can and can't do. You probably can't go to a rave every night of the weekend. But you can listen to EDM on your headphones at the park while you skate!
Delegate
If you have a partner, ask them to help out with the kids so you can have some time for yourself. You can also delegate tasks to other family members or friends. Alternatively, bring them with you. Bring snacks, use bribes, trade sex (just kidding), but find ways to make it happen for yourself. Your existence on this planet gives you the right to happiness.
Get creative
There are lots of ways to find time for the things you love. You can take a walk during your lunch break, read a book before bed, or take a yoga class on the weekend. I used to make Friday the day I would rollerskate from my office to the Courthouse. {Full disclosure: This was actually banned.}
Don't be afraid to ask for help
If you're really struggling to find time for yourself, don't be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. They can help you with the kids or take care of some of the household chores so you can have some time for yourself. The people who love you want you to be happy. It's that silly little thing about communication. You need to tell people what you want and need.
It's important to make time for the things you love, even when you're busy. It will help you stay sane and happy, and it will be good for your kids to see you taking care of yourself. We only have so many sunrises and sunsets.
Life is not limitless so why live a limited life?
