This past week has been kinda hectic with trying to balance my home responsibilities and business. This is always the biggest challenge in my life. In an effort to give myself a break, I took one day last week and sent the kids to the baby sitter’s for the entire day. I tried to do all of the things I really wanted to do without feeling guilty about it. As I lay in bed after waking up from a relaxing nap at 1pm in the AFTERNOON:) it occurred to me that all mothers should have at least one day a week where they can be “off duty.” Most moms are so busy taking care of everyone else, that we rarely think about who we are, where we are in life and what we want for ourselves.  The same morning of my “off duty” day, I was listening to a Christian radio station and the minister spoke about spiritual gifts, a topic that has always been intriguing to me. I love the definition of spiritual gift; a gift is a divine act of service to others. Moms, when we take time for ourselves, we can be of better service to ourselves and to others. Here are some of my favorite ways to have an “off duty” day.

• First, find someone you trust to watch your kids for a full day (Think like Dolly Parton: working 9 to 5!). You deserve it so don’t feel guilty. After my mother moved out of town, it took a while for me to find someone to care for my kids. After praying about this need in my life, I started attending a bible study group. One of the group members expressed a prayer request for employment. I heard her, prayed and soon approached her to help out with my family. She has since served our family by cleaning our home and watching our kids. Sometimes the person is not always obvious, but pray about it and ask God to show you who the best person is.

• Once you get your childcare taken care of, plan to spend the day doing the things you love to do. For me it typically involves sleep and staying in my pajamas all day! I do usually get a little bit of work in but not too much! J

• Spend some time reflecting and journaling your thoughts. One of the things I’ve noticed about being a busy mom is that sometimes I don’t even think about my life. I am in work mode most of the time, working for my family and my business. Just for the day, step away from those roles and write about your life, the things that make you joyful and the things you need to work on.

• One of my guilty pleasures is Reality TV. During the week when I am too busy to watch, I DVR my favorite shows and watch them either late night or on my “off day.” This has helped me to be really present for my family when my husband and children need me the most.

Finally, I can’t forget about exercise. Exercise is a great stress reliever and has many health and weight loss benefits. Yoga is very relaxing and helps connect the mind, body and soul, but I have also found that just taking a quick walk can help you find peace and connect with your inner voice and God.

What’s your favorite way to take time for yourself?