How are you supposed to find time for yourself? The never-ending housework, cooking, homework, schoolwork, sports activities, meetings, volunteering, 40+ work week, can leave anyone tired. Add hemophilia to the mix with the supply ordering, delivery, bleeds, doctor appointments, missed school and work, and it can be downright overwhelming. Where can you insert “me” time into the above equation?
It’s all about how you define “me” time. For myself, the definition changes daily. “Me” time can be a fifteen minute uninterrupted power nap. The next day it might be a twenty minute phone conversation with a friend that I’ve been meaning to catch up with. If I’m lucky, one day it might be a sixty minute massage at a day spa! No matter what it is or how long it lasts, it is energizing and necessary for you to do. Don’t believe me? Think back about how good it felt the last time you had alone time. It feels good.
I feel recharged after some “me” time. I’m ready to tackle the next item on my to-do list. I really like to run. It clears my brain, which is usually on overdrive. Running releases my stress. It gives me, “me” time. And it’s good for me! But it’s freezing outside and I’m not that dedicated of a runner, so I read a book, play Jewels Star 2 (I’m only slightly addicted), work out, create a craft project from Pinterest, meet a friend and enjoy a cup of coffee or go out to dinner with my hubby! 
I recently was able to spend some quality time with my husband, which was long overdue. One of his favorite bands was coming to town and I bought tickets and surprised him the day of the concert. It took a little bit of coordination to make sure the younger kids were taken care of for the evening but we had a blast! It felt good to go out and be a couple.
It is vital to look within your day and find a few minutes for yourself, to enjoy things you like to do. It might be on the commute to work by listening to your favorite radio station/talk show, savoring your cup of coffee, or just using the bathroom in peace, even if only for 5 minutes!
Being a caregiver to anyone is stressful. I notice I am a little more patient, relaxed, and calmer with my family if I had a few minutes to myself. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in all the things that need to be done, should’ve been done and have to be done. I challenge you to find time for yourself.
Start small and make it attainable. I promise you’ll be glad you did! Â Remember, that it doesn’t matter what “it” is. It’s just finding a few moments within your day to say, “Hey, I’m going to read for 10 minutes” or “I’m going to walk around the block.” It’s about taking the time you’ve been given and using just a bit of that time for you.
Jen lives in Ohio with her husband, Joe, and their three children: Evelyn (19), Nora (12) and Jackson (5).
*Note: “Infusing Love: A Mom’s View,” is a blog collection of personal opinions and a representation of individuals experiences. While extensive efforts are made to ensure accuracy of the content, the blog entries do not represent HFA or its Board of Directors. The blog is also not intended to be construed as medical advice or the official opinion/position of HFA, its staff, or its Board of Directors. Readers are strongly encouraged to discuss their own medical treatment with their healthcare providers.
