The Care Paradox

Emily Apuzzo Hopkins | May 6, 2020

One morning last week, I woke up and eagerly made my way to our workout room. (Yes, I said eagerly.) I have always enjoyed working out, but something has recently clicked for me. Pounds and inches lost, self-care and confidence gained. This thing is working in ways it hasn’t before - I am making time for me.

Fast forward to the following morning. My alarm rings and I am ready to get up until I hear: "Hold me, mama... hold my hand." In the wee hours of the morning, this little person called for me and because I could use a little holding myself these days, I agreed. Alarm adjusted. Morning workout skipped.

As we approach another mother’s day, I find myself reflecting on my year as a mom. What kind of mom have I been, what kind of mom am I becoming… Balancing motherhood with anything is difficult, but for some reason, the balance with self-care tends to teeter most. It’s hard - it just is. 

The workout? It didn’t happen that morning, but it did happen. After dinner, I made my way upstairs and worked out. Even better, I worked out with my little person right next to me - with her watching my every move. 

My reflection? 

I will never apologize for taking care of myself. I deserve an oxygen mask, too. (See Everything for Everybody.) I hope she sees me as the kind of mother who loves herself as much as she loves those around her because I personally look at making time for myself to be the best lesson I could possibly ever teach my child. I want her to always know that she is worth that time, that energy. And the more she gives that to herself - some way, somehow - she will have more for others.

So, to other mothers out there… take care. Take care of yourself for yourself. And if you “can’t” or can’t find the time, take care of yourself for them - your children. They deserve a happy, healthy mom and you deserve a happy, healthy self.