How to Show Up for Yourself, Even When Life Feels Like Too Much -

There are days when showing up feels impossible.

The kids are calling your name nonstop.

The laundry hasn’t folded itself (again).

Your kids are fighting, dinner’s still a question mark, and you’re running on fumes; physically, emotionally, and sometimes mentally.

And yet… you keep going.

But what about you? Who’s showing up for you?

I’ve asked myself that question a lot lately. And here’s what I’ve learned:

Showing up for yourself doesn’t mean having it all together. It means choosing yourself; even in the smallest of ways; again and again.

Redefining What It Means to “Show Up”

I used to think showing up meant a full self-care day, an uninterrupted morning routine, or finally sticking to the plan. But real life (especially in motherhood) doesn’t always allow for that. So I’ve learned to redefine it.

Showing up looks like:

Saying no when you’re at capacity
Taking five deep breaths before answering the 100th “Mom!”
Drinking water, reading one verse, or for me; reading a book
Admitting you’re tired, and not apologizing for it or feeling guilty for it

It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. Intentionality. Grace.

Why It Matters

When you consistently neglect yourself, everything starts to suffer; your energy, your patience, your joy, your health; everything. But when you start to show up for yourself, even in small ways, you begin to refill what life has poured out. And that overflow? It blesses everyone around you, especially YOU. You were never meant to be the last thing on your own list. No one places you last on the list but you, every time you bump yourself to the bottom and place something else above you.

A Simple Way to Start Right Now

Here’s a 3-question check-in I use to stay grounded. Try journaling, voice-noting, or meditating your answers today:

How am I really feeling right now?
What do I need more (or less) of this week?
What’s one thing I can do just for me today, even if it’s small?

No pressure. No guilt. Just honesty and intention. Easy right?

Let This Be Your Reminder

You’re not lazy. You’re not failing. You’re simply human. A human who’s been doing a lot (maybe even doing it all alone). So before you show up for everyone else today; show up for you. Even if it’s a breath. A prayer. A moment of stillness. Enjoy that glass of wine, that time at the gym, or sitting on the porch enjoying the night’s breeze (unless you live in Florida lol). You are worthy of your own time, love, and care. And you don’t have to earn it because you deserve it!

With you always,

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