Remember I did a post a few months ago about how I like to go out once a week (when my health allows) for some quiet, a place to write, a glass of wine and some general ‘me time’ … all in the name of self-care?
Well, I was in bed on one of those nights recently – thanks to an all-too-regular ME flare-up – and it occurred to me, I didn’t tell you how I get my ‘me time’ when I’m not well enough to go out, but I am well enough to write. So …
(Brace yourselves …)
… I PRETEND go out.
That’s right folks; I fake leaving the house.
To clarify, ‘pretend going out’ basically means I go to my room, shut the door and make it clear that if anyone wants me for anything, they can fuck right off.
(Genius, right?!)
Yeah, okay, those may not be my ACTUAL words (albeit tempting some days). My actual words are far more child and husband-friendly and goes a little something like this:
“Hey guys, you know how it’s important that I get some ‘me time’ occasionally, and how I like to go out for a couple of hours on Wednesdays for that reason? Well, I don’t have enough energy to go out tonight – so instead, I’m going to go ‘pretend out’. This means that although you know I’m in my room, you must pretend that I’m not home. This means not disturbing me until I ‘get home’ – ie., come out of my room and tell you I’m back.”
The first time I did this, I honestly didn’t think my kids would give a rats arse about the boundaries I’d set. However, they left me in peace – which really surprised me.
I’ve been performing my once-weekly disappearing act for a few months now, with full co-operation from my kids. And it’s got me wondering: maybe I underestimated them? Maybe they HAVE developed their understanding of ‘me time’ as a crucial form of self-care. Maybe by modelling this behaviour myself, they will grow into adults who look after themselves too, and model it for their future children. Maybe they will grow into happy, healthy humans with self-care as a core value for themselves and their family. And it’s all thanks to me!!
… Or maybe, they’re so busy watching shit on Youtube and playing Roblox that they don’t actually give a flying toss what I’m up to.
Whatevs. I still get my break.
Therefore … I WIN! 😂
