Parenting & Self-Care: From a Financial Advisor

If you've ever traveled on a commercial flight, you've likely heard this advice: "In the event of an emergency, secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others." For parents, self-care serves the same purpose—it's the foundation that enables you to care for others effectively.

What is self-care?

Self-care involves actively supporting your physical, mental, and emotional well-being through intentional habits and practices.

When self-care is neglected, it can negatively impact your quality of life, hinder your performance at work and home, and strain your relationships and overall mood.

For parents, making time for self-care can feel like an uphill battle. The demands of raising children often consume every ounce of your time and energy, and prioritizing yourself might even lead to feelings of guilt. However, understanding the importance of self-care—not just for your own benefit but also for your family's well-being—can help create a healthier, happier home for everyone.

Self-Care Tips for Parents with Newborns

Adjusting to parenthood can be overwhelming, but taking care of yourself is crucial. Here are some practical ways to focus on your well-being as you navigate this new chapter:

●      Rest whenever your baby sleeps to catch up on much-needed sleep.

●      Don’t hesitate to ask family or close friends for support.

●      Consider hiring a cleaning service to reduce household stress.

●      Simplify mealtime by ordering healthy, pre-prepared meals from a local service.

Self-Care Strategies for Overall Well-Being

Balancing self-care with parenting might feel challenging, but even small steps can make a big difference in maintaining your health and happiness.

Physical Health

●      Prioritize sleep, as it’s key to staying energized and focused.

●      Stay active when you can—whether it’s a short walk or light stretching, every bit helps.

●      Pay attention to your nutrition, stay hydrated, and fuel your body with wholesome foods.

●      Spend time outdoors; sunlight boosts vitamin D, enhances mood, and improves sleep.

●      Keep up with routine healthcare appointments, such as physicals, dental visits, and screenings.

●      Show your children healthy habits. When they see you taking care of yourself, they will likely do the same.

Mental and Emotional Health

●      Avoid comparing yourself to others. Social media rarely shows the full picture.

●      Communicate openly with your partner, family, and friends about your needs and feelings.

●      Reassess your goals and budget regularly to adapt to life’s changes.

●      Use your paid time off to recharge—many workers leave this benefit unused.

●      Stay connected to your personal interests and hobbies, even if it’s just for a short time each week.

●      Be kind to yourself and those around you. Parenting comes with ups and downs, so set realistic expectations and don’t dwell on temporary setbacks.

●      Don’t be afraid to lean on your support system. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Reach out to family, friends, or online communities for encouragement, or seek professional help if needed.

By prioritizing your own well-being, you’re not only improving your own quality of life but also creating a healthier, happier environment for your family.

Bottom Line

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When you make self-care a priority, you help your own health and happiness. This also builds a stronger, more resilient family. Remember, when you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for those who depend on you.

Sources:

https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/life-events/self-care-tips-and-parenting

Disclosures:

This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.

This material is provided as a courtesy and for educational purposes only.

These are the views of the author, not the named Representative or Advisory Services Network, LLC, and should not be construed as investment advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information