I didn’t make it to the movie theater—but I still made time for myself, and that’s what mattered.
You know that rare moment where your schedule lines up and you finally get a chance to step out and do something just for you? That was me—ready to see the 20th anniversary showing of Pride and Prejudice (yes, the 2005 version—I know the 1995 fans are loyal, but I’m a Keira Knightley girl!). I was so excited. But as often happens, work ran late, and I missed my window.
Cue disappointment. But instead of giving up on the idea of solo time entirely, I pivoted.
I stayed home, lit a candle, and pulled out a Jane Austen word search book I bought over a year ago and never opened. And something about quietly solving those puzzles with a cozy blanket and a cup of tea felt… perfect.
If You’ve Been Craving Time Alone But Never Take It…
You’re not alone. As a mom of three (one of them a nursing baby), I’m hardly ever alone. And honestly, I love being with my family. But I’ve come to realize that small pockets of solo time are essential—not because I want to get away from my family, but because they help me come back to them more grounded.
3 Mindset Shifts That Helped Me Reclaim “Me” Time:
- A quiet night at home still counts.
We often think we have to go out to have a break. But sitting on the couch with a book, puzzle, or just silence can be deeply refreshing. - Having a backup plan keeps disappointment from stealing the moment.
Missing the movie was frustrating, but I still had something ready to do for myself. Now I keep a short “solo time” list on my phone—books I want to read, shows to catch up on, or a creative project I haven’t touched in months. - Alone doesn’t mean lonely.
I used to think solo outings were intimidating. I’ve never even gone to a movie or restaurant alone! But now I’m slowly learning that doing something for myself—even at home—can be empowering and deeply personal.
What You Can Try This Week:
- Write down one simple solo activity you could do this week.
- Tell your partner or a friend you’re going to do it—and ask them to help hold you to it.
- Don’t wait for a “perfect” window. Start small and take the win.
You deserve to be a whole person—not just a mom, a worker, a homeschool teacher.
Even 20 quiet minutes can remind you of that.
What’s something small you could do for yourself this week?