I Feel Like More Than Just "Mom" Thanks to These Little Daily Rituals

Yes, she is a mother, but she is still me.

To be honest, I felt like I had to earn "me time" for a very long period. As if "Mom" was the only identity that counted. However, I gradually began to establish small customs—small deeds that benefited not just my children but also me. And those little moments built up over time.

These little daily routines make me feel like more than simply "Mom" and re-establish a connection with myself; perhaps they will do the same for you.

1. I get up fifteen minutes earlier than everyone else.

The thought of early mornings used to make me laugh. However, I feel more in control of my day even if I am only 10 to 15 minutes before the house wakes up. I quietly sip my hot coffee. I jot down some lines. I just sit sometimes.

Being productive is not the point. The goal is to begin the day how I see fit.

If you frequently feel like you are already behind by 8 a.m., try this.

2. I Write in a Journal Just One Line—No Pressure

I can compose a single statement, but I do not always have time for in-depth contemplation. I am sensing something.

"Dancing is something I miss."

"Tonight, I managed nighttime better."

"I need room."

These little notes eventually add up to a breadcrumb trail that leads back to me.

If you feel emotionally jumbled or disengaged from your own ideas, try this.

3. Even though I do not have anywhere to be, I dress as though I do.

 

even if it is only mascara and jeans. I present myself differently—for myself—on the days when I put on makeup or get out of my jammies.

It serves as a reminder that I am still a complete person, not because I "should."

If you notice yourself becoming less involved in your personal life, try this.

4. I Only Listen to Music for Myself

Cocomelon, no. No lullabies. Not white noise. My song. 

while running errands with my headphones. It changes my energy instantaneously.

Try this if: You long for the you who used to dance, drive with the windows down, and occasionally feel cool.

5. I Make the Ordinary Romantic

I fill an actual mug with my afternoon coffee. As I wash the dishes, I light a candle. I take a shower and then apply the "luxury" lotion.

Simple times feel purposeful—like I matter, too—thanks to these small improvements.

If: Your days seem to be a haze of chores rather than moments, give this a try.

6. I Take a 20-Minute Phone-Free Break

I put my phone aside for one period of time every day. Do not scroll. No alerts. Simply being there. I occasionally sit outside.

I do not always multitask while I play with my kids. I just lie down sometimes.

It serves as a reminder that I may feel authentic without constantly being connected.

If you feel overstimulated but undernourished at the end of the day, try this.

7. I also bid myself good night.

I do not just fall onto the couch after goodnight readings, water refills, and one more cuddle. I make an effort to give myself a little time before bed, whether it is to stretch, wash my face slowly, or read something unrelated to parenting.

"You have accomplished enough. You are enough" is what it means.

Try this if: You frequently feel as though you vanish as soon as the house is silent.

Conclusion: You are Still There

Although you will not be able to relive your pre-mom life, these rituals will help you feel more like yourself. They are not about getting away. They have to do with integration.

You remain here. Not only for the benefit of others, but also as your own complete, complex, emotional, and creative self. Hours are not necessary. To begin remembering who you are, all you need are a few precious minutes, strung together like pearls.

And perhaps—just possibly—that is where everything else starts to change.