Self care vs self maintenance can be separated by a fuzzy line. I truly believe everyone has a different definition – as a mom of 4, here’s mine!
Making the distinction between self care and self maintenance is very important. Over the years, we (even moms) have normalized eating a hot meal or getting a hot shower as a luxury and consider it self care. These are necessary things to keep yourself surviving, not ways to treat yourself.
Self Maintenance meaning – for moms
As moms, we need to understand that the definition of “selfish” is not bad. There should not be a negative connotation to the word. We need to be selfish to be at our best.
But what is the difference? How do we know if it’s self care or self maintenance?
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What is the difference between self care and self maintenance/management?
Self care vs self maintenance can have a blurry line. I truly think it looks different for everyone. So for me, I like to make that line a little more clear. Self maintenance is taking care of yourself day to day. Showering, eating, brushing your teeth, etc.
Taking easy breaks are a form of self care – Putting the kids in front of the TV or giving them something that will keep them busy while you read a book, scroll social media, drink hot coffee. You might enjoy it, you might not. However, these breaks should not be your only form of self care.
I understand that some moms can hardly get the self maintenance things done because of depression, unruly kids, exhaustion, etc. But sometimes, forcing yourself to do them or understanding how they make you feel is the push you truly need. Go a whole day making sure your basic needs are met and then focus on adding the self care. You might just realize how much better things can be with both!
What is self maintenance?
Self maintenance is different than self care. Self maintenance are tasks you do during the day to stay functioning and that you can do with the kids around. You may or may not enjoy them but they’re necessary. It means to literally maintain yourself, day to day.
- Showering
- Eating when you’re hungry
- Drinking your water, etc.
- Sleeping
- Brushing your teeth
These are also quick breaks that allow you to stay sane! Reading a book while the kids are playing, getting your own coloring sheets while the kids are playing, taking a ride in the car to pick up groceries, going grocery shopping, etc.
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What are examples of self care?
Self care goes a step above self maintenance. Self care is prioritizing yourself to do something that benefits you and your mood. As a parent, it’s something that doesn’t involved the tiny humans! It is necessary as well, but goes above and beyond general care for yourself.
- Waking up early before your kids to be alone (or after they go to bed)
- Watching a show you enjoy alone
- Date night with your spouse
- Girls’ night
- Picking up a hobby, blogging, etc.
- Taking short, quick breaks during the day as needed (TV time for the kids, reading a book by yourself, etc.)
It is absolutely something that you enjoy. You should not feel burdened doing your self care activities. It should not feel like a chore.
If you can’t get away, taking short, quick breaks during the day is a great way to make sure you’re prioritizing yourself until you CAN get away.
It doesn’t have to be a spa weekend or trip away!
