Finding time for yourself: Why it’s okay to prioritize “me time” as a parent
Parenthood can feel like a never-ending to-do list. Between juggling kids, work, and household responsibilities, finding time for yourself can seem impossible.
But here’s the truth: You need moments to recharge and reset so you can show up as your best self for your family. We asked some of the parents on the Balance team to share their favorite ways to find "me time," even in the busiest of schedules. Here’s what they had to say:
1. Turn chores into relaxation time
“Instead of dreading household chores, I use them as an excuse for a mini-break by listening to my favorite podcasts. Whether I’m doing laundry, washing dishes, or even taking a shower, I just pop on my headphones and dive right in.” — Olivia Johnson, Director of People
Pro tip: Choose a podcast that’s purely for fun or something you’re curious about. It turns mundane tasks into a chance to unwind.
2. Book activities for yourself
Olivia also swears by signing up for classes or activities she loves. The trick? She pays for it in advance and puts it on the calendar. This way, it feels like a commitment she can’t easily skip, making it more likely she’ll actually show up and enjoy the time for herself.
Pro tip: Pick something that gets you out of the house. It’s easier to focus on yourself without the distractions of home life.
3. Use dog walks as a built-in break
“Get a dog (or two, in my case). Yes, they’re technically additional dependents. But I have to walk my dogs, so I can step outside with them for a few minutes several times a day without any guilt.” — Anna Braunsdorf, VP of Content
Pro tip: Treat these walks as a moment for mindfulness. Tune into your surroundings, breathe deeply, and let it be your mini reset.
4. Sneak away to your car
Anna’s kids play a lot of sports, and while she never wants to miss their games, she doesn’t feel bad about not watching them practice. So she’s taken to driving them to practice, walking them inside, and then ducking back out to her car to either relax or get some things done—like ordering groceries or making appointments—while she waits for them to finish.
Pro tip: Keep a book, a notebook, or even your favorite meditation app within arm’s reach. It’s a simple way to make the most of those in-between moments.
5. Step outside for a real break
“My best advice for “me time” is to do something outside of the house. It's so hard to really relax when the kiddos are around. Even if it's just a walk outside, it's good to have time where no one needs anything from you.” — Heather Speaker, Customer Support Manager
Pro tip: Schedule a daily 10-minute walk by yourself. It might seem small, but those few minutes can help clear your mind and boost your mood.
Make “me time” a priority with the Balance app
These simple, real-life tips from the Balance team prove that it is possible to find me time—even as a busy parent. The key is to sneak self-care into your routine in ways that work for you.
If you need a little help prioritizing yourself, the Balance app offers guided meditations that fit right into your day. So, download the Balance app today for free and start making time for you. Because yes, you deserve it.
