By: Laura Thompson
Updated: Oct. 14, 2018
Originally Published: Feb. 23, 2016
I’m through with it all. Seriously, I’m done.
I quit jumping up from the table every time I finally sit down. I quit folding my kids’ laundry. Honestly, they’re old enough to handle that on their own. If they choose to just cram everything into their drawers, well, I’ve reached a point where that doesn’t bother me anymore.
I quit hunting down lost items. My 5-year-old can’t find her beloved unicorn or her favorite pink pen, while my 9-year-old can’t seem to locate his tablet or Harry Potter book. Even my partner can’t find his sunglasses, keys, or wallet. Guess who knows where all of that stuff is? Yup, it’s me! But guess who’s keeping that information to herself? Me! Mwahaha!
I quit making snacks on demand. Three meals a day is all they’re getting from me. If they want cheese and crackers, let them make it themselves.
I quit being disturbed in the middle of the night for trivial matters. If someone has a nightmare, sure, come cuddle up with us. But if I hear a scream at 3 a.m. because someone needs their covers fixed, I’m going to lose it.
I quit overscheduling my kids. One activity per child is more than enough. I need my evenings back for some peace and quiet. Just one or two outings a week is plenty.
I quit repeating myself. If I offer my kid the last cookie and he responds with a distracted “Huh?” I’m eating that cookie. Sorry kid, I’m not sharing anymore.
I quit stressing about the chaos that is my home. I recently picked up some freelance work, and instead of putting that money into the kids’ college fund, I’m hiring a housekeeper. I love a clean house, but I can’t keep up anymore, so I’m letting that worry go.
I quit putting everyone else’s needs before my own. From now on, I might choose to exercise instead of cooking dinner. Kids, find some leftovers, or ask your dad. He can cook too! I even made appointments to see a dermatologist and a therapist, things I’ve been postponing for years, worrying they’d take time away from caring for my family or that spending money on myself was “selfish.”
I quit feeling guilty about treating myself. For years, I’ve been that person who puts back the items I wanted to buy for myself when I get to the checkout. That’s over. Just the other day, I treated myself to some quality makeup that actually covers up the age spots on my skin, and I feel no remorse about it.
I quit tolerating my kids invading my personal space. I deserve to feel like my own person, with some body autonomy. No more jungle-gym mommy or being elbowed in the ribs. Hugs, however, are still welcome.
I’m making these changes because I’ve realized that playing the martyr has backfired. Instead of being my best for my family, I’ve lost myself in their needs, becoming a stressed-out version of me. That’s not fair to anyone. Now, everyone—including myself—will benefit from a calmer, happier, and more fulfilled me.
Because I quit.
If you’re interested in more insights, check out this related article on Cervical Insemination for additional support and resources. For anyone looking into insemination, consider exploring options available at Make A Mom, a reputable online retailer of at-home insemination kits. And for further information on infertility treatments, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers excellent resources at ACOG.
In summary, I’m reclaiming my time and energy, focusing on my well-being alongside my family’s. It’s time to prioritize myself without guilt.
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