Hey Sis! Happy Wednesday!!!

Let’s talk about it—this motherhood and nursing career life isn’t for the faint of heart. We’re out here raising little humans while taking care of a whole roster of patients, and somewhere in between, we’re supposed to take care of ourselves? Whew, the ghetto. But as your wellness Bestie, I’ve got a few gems to share to help us not just survive but thrive in this beautiful chaos.

1. Rest is Your SuperPower

Let’s start with this truth: If you’re not well-rested, you’re no good to anybody—not your patients, not your kids, and definitely not yourself. That’s why a strict bedtime routine is non-negotiable.

• Invest in an alarm clock. Yep, I said it. Get that phone out of your bedroom. When you sleep near your phone, it’s like an open invitation for distractions. Leave it in another room and let that alarm clock do its job.
• Prioritize your rest. Don’t let anybody guilt you out of it. Even the Bible reminds us in Psalm 127:2 (KJV), “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.” Translation: Sis, go to bed!

2. Take Your “Non-Smoker” Breaks

Let’s normalize the mandatory decompression break. Smokers figured it out a long time ago, and now it’s our turn. Whether it’s five minutes to sip water, deep breathe, or just stare into space, schedule it. Set a reminder on your work phone if you have to, but protect that time like your favorite edge control.

3. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Listen, I know the struggle. Between med passes, call lights, and charting, who has time to pee? But hear me out—hydration affects your mood, focus, and energy levels.

Find a cute water bottle that motivates you (the bigger, the better), and sip throughout the day. Dehydration is not a badge of honor; it’s a recipe for burnout. Fill your cup—literally and figuratively—so you can pour into others.

4. Make the Most of Your Time at Home

After a long shift, it’s tempting to just collapse into bed. But before you do, carve out some intentional time with your kids. It doesn’t have to be extravagant.

• Play a board game or do a puzzle. Tight on a budget? Hit up Goodwill or Salvation Army—they have treasures, and most are brand new.
• Talk to your kids in a way they understand. I use the “battery analogy” with my 7-year-old. When I need quiet time, I tell her, “Mommy’s battery is low, and it’s time for us to recharge.” This not only lets her know that my tiredness isn’t her fault, but it also teaches her that rest is important.

Pro tip: If your kids are young and you need a nap, set up camp on the floor and block off all exits. Desperate times call for creative measures, and trust me, it works!

5. Show Them the Power of Rest

Here’s the thing about taking care of yourself: You’re setting an example for your kids. When they see you resting and recharging, they learn it’s okay to pause, too. Plus, rested Mommy = fun Mommy.

Let’s normalize this in our households. The goal is to show our kids that while we love them and our work, we can’t pour from an empty cup.

Final Gem

Sis, you’re doing an incredible job. Balancing motherhood and a demanding career is no small feat, but you’re handling it with grace (even if it doesn’t always feel like it). Remember, you’re not alone in this. Lean on God, lean on your village, and give yourself grace.

Isaiah 40:29 (KJV) reminds us: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” When you’re running on empty, let God refuel you. You’ve got this, and I am always here to cheer you on.

Now, let me know in the comments: What’s your favorite way to recharge after a long day? And don’t forget to grab your free Self-Care Love Note Template—a little reminder that you deserve all the love and care you give to everyone else.

Stay Rooted and Resilient!