I didn’t really understand how important having time to be alone as a mom was until last weekend. Last weekend I was able to step out without my daughter or anyone else with me. I indulged in a little retail therapy. Treated myself to a leisurely lunch. Didn’t even rush back home. IT FELT AMAZING. Those couple of hours did wonders for me. It was during those hours that I truly understood that moms just wanna be alone sometimes.
I realized that it was the first time in over a month that I hadn’t had an opportunity to be alone. It is probably the longest time I’ve gone without taking time for myself by myself. Upon further reflection, my lack of alone time impacted much of my day to day feelings and interactions.
Why do moms just wanna be alone (sometimes)?
I realize I have talked in the past about taking solo vacations and taking breaks. But I didn’t really take time to appreciate the importance of being alone. According to an article on Romper, “alone time for moms is a necessity, not an indulgence”. I think very often I have approached alone time as an indulgence. Alone time was a reward if you will after a rough week. However I understand it’s needed.
The weeks prior to my alone time I wasn’t myself. I was experiencing body aches and headaches. My patience with my daughter was short. Daily motivation at work had decreased. Excessive indulgence in food as well as cravings for unhealthy foods increased. Sleep and energy levels were no good. But the moment I left the house alone I felt a shift. It felt like a weight was lifted off of me.
There are times when moms just wanna be alone. Taking time to reset and refresh ourselves is not a reward but a necessity.
