What I Learned From Missing My Solo Movie Night
What I Learned From Missing My Solo Movie Night (and Why Solo Time Matters for Moms Who Homeschool or Work From Home)
If you’re a busy mom balancing homeschooling, working from home, or just the daily demands of family life, you know how rare it is to carve out true solo time. I had planned the perfect night: a solo movie outing to see the 20th anniversary showing of Pride and Prejudice. I was so excited. But as often happens, work ran late, and I missed my window.
Still, instead of giving up on self-care, I pivoted. I lit a candle, curled up under a cozy blanket with tea, and opened a Jane Austen word search book I bought over a year ago and had 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 Help Moms Create Real Solo 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 and restorative. - Keep a backup plan for “me time.”
Missing the movie was frustrating, but I still had something ready to do for myself. - 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 I’ve learned that even quiet time at home can feel empowering and personal.
Teaching Kids to Respect Mom’s Solo Time
Sometimes I weave my quiet moments right into the rhythm of our homeschool day. I’ll tell my kids, “You know how you love running around outside or building a Lego castle? Mommy has fun in a different way—I like reading a book or doing a puzzle when I need a break.”
Even now that they’re outgrowing nap time, I’ll give them options: read a book, do a word puzzle, or play quietly in their room. That gives me a short pocket of time to rest or recharge—even if it’s just 15 minutes on the couch with a cup of tea.
And honestly? They’re pretty understanding when I explain things in ways that connect to their day-to-day joys. I like to think I’m teaching them that rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a life skill.
Quiz: What Kind of Solo Time Do You Need Right Now?
Whether you’re homeschooling, working from home, or doing both, your alone time matters—and how you spend it should fit your personality and energy levels. Answer these 6 questions to find out your current solo time style!
How it works:
Choose the option that fits you best for each question. Then count how many A’s, B’s, C’s, and D’s you picked to see your result.
1. When your house is finally quiet, what do you instinctively reach for?
A. A book, blanket, or candle—something cozy and still.
B. My keys. I’m heading out for some fresh air or a treat.
C. My notebook, paints, or anything creative.
D. My headphones and a snack—it’s podcast or scroll time.
2. How much effort do you realistically want to put into your alone time?
A. As little as possible—I need it easy and restful.
B. I’m happy to make a little effort if I can get out of the house.
C. I’ll happily prep if it involves something fulfilling or expressive.
D. If it takes more than 5 minutes to set up, I’ll skip it.
3. If someone offered to watch your kids for an hour, what would you do?
A. Stay home, light a candle, and soak in the silence.
B. Go to a coffee shop, take a walk, or browse a bookstore.
C. Start that project I’ve been dreaming about.
D. Run errands in peace—with a snack and a good playlist.
4. What helps you feel most like yourself again?
A. Quiet reflection and stillness.
B. A change in scenery.
C. Creating or expressing something meaningful.
D. A small break that doesn’t derail the rest of the day.
5. What’s one word you’d want to describe your solo time?
A. Peaceful
B. Refreshing
C. Inspired
D. Doable
6. What’s your energy level like most days?
A. Low—I need recharge, not stimulation.
B. Medium—I’m tired but being out helps.
C. It varies, but I miss being creative.
D. I’m managing—I just need something small that’s mine.
Your Results
Mostly A’s: The Cozy Nest
You crave comfort, quiet, and the ability to just be. Your best solo time is something calming you can do at home—reading, journaling, a bath, or a puzzle with tea. Make it sacred and simple.
Mostly B’s: The Out-and-About Rejuvenator
You feel most like yourself when you step away from your usual surroundings. A solo walk, bookstore trip, or solo brunch might be exactly what your spirit needs. Get out there—you’ve earned it.
Mostly C’s: The Creative Escape Artist
You’re longing to create. Whether it’s writing, crafting, baking, or making a playlist, solo time that engages your imagination is what recharges you most. Make space for it, even if it’s messy.
Mostly D’s: The Micro-Moment Maven
You don’t have time for long breaks—and that’s okay. You thrive on short, satisfying moments that fit into your day. A few deep breaths, a snack alone in the car, or 10 minutes of music can go a long way.
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 “mom,” “teacher,” or “worker.” Even 20 quiet minutes can reset your energy and remind you of who you are.
So—what’s one small thing you can do for yourself this week?