As the attendant walked through the aisles targeting parents of little ones with this specific prompt, I let her words sink in. It’s not because it’s something I hadn’t heard many times before, but this idea of putting your mask on first had just come up during a conversation I had with a friend.

Like all moms everywhere, I had been giving and doing for those around me, and like all moms everywhere, I hit a wall and was feeling a bit burned out and stressed. I just needed to take a breather and do something for myself, but saying it and acting upon it are two different things.

I may be quick to encourage my fellow mama friends to set aside some time to recharge and refresh, but it’s very easy for me to fall into the ‘mama martyr’ trap. It’s not that I don’t love some me-time (believe me, I do!), but I sometimes feel like if I’m not sacrificing something all.the.time, then I’m not doing enough for my family. This is a bold face lie of course, because as the oxygen mask reminded me, I am a better mom when I take care of myself….

Visit Motherhood Inspired to read the rest of this post and for 4 points to consider in the importance of making time for yourself!