Finding Time For Personal Growth

Often the first thing that falls off the list of busy moms is time for personal growth and development. Reading a good book, attending a class or learning something new just don't seem as urgent as the kids dental appointments, cooking dinner and making sure that everyone has clean underwear and matching socks.

But in order to continue to grow and improve as a human being, you must make time for your own personal growth. And the good news is that it really doesn't take a lot of extra time, either. With some careful planning and these tips, you can have continuing personal growth and be a great mom at the same time.

1. DEDICATE A SPECIFIC TIME EACH DAY OR WEEK FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT.
It could be when the baby is having a nap or when the kids are at school. Or you could arrange a babysitter for a few hours a week. Use that precious alone time to journal, read, pray, meditate, set goals for the upcoming week or month, attend a class or anything else that makes you a better, wiser and more fully evolved human being.

2. JOIN A MOM-FRIENDLY SUPPORT GROUP.
This could be a Mommy & Me group, a group of friends with similar interests, goals and values or even an online group. Choose the group that suits you and your unique needs and don't be afraid to change if it isn't working.

3. EXERCISE YOUR MENTAL MUSCLES.
Reading, crafts, continuing education, a home based business and so on are all ways to keep your mind fresh and make you a more alive and interesting person. Being a Mom is no excuse to be dull, boring and out of touch with the world.

4. TAKE TIME TO NURTURE RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER ADULTS.
A date with your husband, time out with a friend to go shopping or to watch a movie or to go to the day-spa are all ways to nurture yourself and other important adults in your life.

5. LEARN TO LAUGH AT YOURSELF.
Learn to laugh at your mistakes rather than stress about it. And teach your kids to do the same.

6. GET REGULAR EXERCISE.
It really doesn't matter what type of exercise you do. As long enjoy it and do it regularly, you'll look and feel much better. A healthy mind and a healthy body go hand in hand.

7. HAVE A "PLAN B" IN PLACE.
On days when things go wrong have a back-up plan in place. For example, you may have planned to spend most of the day running errands, but now the car won't start. Instead of letting the entire day go to waste, have another plan in place. You may decide to clean out the closet or read that book you've been putting off instead.

There really is no excuse for allowing yourself to stagnate once you become a mom. With these 7 simple suggestions you can continue to be a vital, interesting person and teach your children to be the same.