For introverts, the home is important for recharging from the sometimes overstimulating world out there. It is where we retreat to refuel and recalibrate. Most adults in my life understand this basic need and give me space when needed. However, kids do not because they lack awareness of the concept of personal space. That can be challenging and exhausting for an introverted mom. Through trial and error, I have found different ways of marrying the needs of my children and mine. I am happy to share those tips with you today.
Enforce quiet time
I enforce a one-hour quiet time for the kids every day. They are to stay in their rooms and take a nap, read or play quietly. It is not the best time of their day, but they have come to accept it as a family practice. I love it! That quiet time is golden because it gives me space to recharge and be alone with myself.
Wake before everyone
I wake up at least two hours before the rest of the family and luxuriate in the calming silence of dawn. This is the time to commune with myself and my maker. I pray, read, meditate, write and set my intentions for the day. The early morning is a magical time for me! It can be an introverted mom’s best gift if you are a morning person. I am fresh, my brain is sharp, and it is so tranquil.
Sleep after everyone
The kids’ bedtime is 8 pm and mine 10 pm. I use the 2-hour gap to tidy up, unwind and relax after a long day. I retreat to my bedroom to read, journal, and plan for the following day. Those hours do an excellent job of recharging me from the draining interactions of the day. I go to bed happy, content, and ready for the next day.
Create your private space
Introverts value personal space more than anything else. A lack of space from others can exhaust us in every way. Physical space is the easiest way we get much-needed time away from others. A private room is a gift to an introvert after a day of interacting with others.
What do you do when you have kids running amok in the house and shadowing your every move? My answer was to convert a rarely used and secluded guest/playroom into my own private space. I decorated it using a soothing white and blush color palette and soft velvet. It is my happy place whenever I need an escape, and it stays locked all the time.
Use noise-canceling headphones
My wireless noise-canceling headphones help tune out the noise at home. So, my kids can continue watching a repeat of their favorite cartoon while I listen to an audiobook or podcast. I do not get irritated by their loud play because I am completely tuned out.
In conclusion, I do what introverted moms do—embrace my quieter nature and find ways to recharge even with kids. Nowadays, I rarely feel drained because I take advantage of space and graceful exits into the quiet and calm.
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