What Is Your Non-Negotiable “Me Time”?
- Mafalda Novo
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Being a parent is amazing — but exhausting. Between work, household tasks, emails, endless to-do lists, and being there for our kids, it’s easy to forget ourselves.
Before having kids, my outlet was simple: gym twice a week, Zumba and Pilates classes — I always made time to move. After my first child, I kept Pilates for a while, then it slipped away. I even paid for a year-long gym membership… and never set foot inside.
Then, in 2020, I started running. It became my weekly reset — until pregnancy and the first year with my second child paused it again. When I got back into running, I realised how much I needed that time for myself.
Running 10k is no longer just about fitness; it’s about protecting my mind, my energy, and my ability to show up for the people I love. Music, moments of reflection, and being surrounded by nature make it even more valuable.
Realising What Works
A casual question about if I go to the gym made me reflect about the excuses I was making. With my eldest starting school earlier, the beginning of the day was now mine. Early workouts fit my life better than evenings ever could — and suddenly, the reasons not to go simply vanished.
Why It Matters
Parenting never stops.
The mental load is constant: juggling schedules, keeping up with friends, and being present for our kids in every mood.
A physical outlet doesn’t just build strength — it creates balance. It channels stress, frustration, and fatigue into movement. It lightens the mental load, boosts patience, and even eases that ever-present back pain from carrying young children (don’t we all?).
Tips to Find Your Outlet
Ask: What is my non-negotiable me time? Even 10 minutes counts.
Start small: Short walks, stretches, or a dance in the living room works.
Anchor it: Early mornings, lunch breaks, or post-drop-off.
Think beyond fitness: Journaling, painting, or gardening are valid outlets.
Notice the ripple effect: Recharging yourself helps everyone around you.
Final Thought
Your “me time” isn’t selfish — it’s essential.
If you’re wondering how to carve out moments of “me time” in your life, or how to create a sustainable, intentional outlet based on your goals and interests, let’s connect.
We can figure out how to build space in your diary for the moments that recharge and energise you — so you can show up fully for yourself and those you love.
So — what’s your outlet?
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