As an at-home mom—whether you’re a work-at-home mom like me or a stay-at-home mom—you know that finding a moment of peace can feel nearly impossible. Between caring for the kids, managing household responsibilities, and, for some of us, running a business from home, it’s easy to put ourselves last. But after years of juggling my two blogs, household duties, and family life, I’ve learned that alone time is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
I used to feel guilty about wanting time for myself. As moms, we often believe that every moment should be dedicated to our families. But I quickly realized that burnout is real, and if I don’t take care of myself, I can’t show up fully for my loved ones. Taking even small moments to recharge allows me to be a better mom, wife, and entrepreneur. Here’s how I’ve learned to carve out moments of solitude in a busy household.
Simple tips on how to carve out Alone Time as an At-Home Moms
1. Wake Up Before Everyone Else
One of my favorite ways to enjoy quiet time is to wake up before my family. I use this time for prayer, journaling, reading, or just sipping my tea in peace. Even 15–30 minutes of uninterrupted time in the morning sets a positive tone for the day.
2. Establish Quiet Time for Everyone
Quiet time isn’t just for kids—it’s for moms too! Encourage your children to engage in independent activities like reading, drawing, or playing quietly for a set period. This works wonders, especially if you have younger kids. It’s also a great way to teach them the importance of personal time.
3. Use Screen Time Wisely
While I try to limit screen time, I won’t deny that it can be a lifesaver when I need a breather. Letting the kids watch an educational show or play an age-appropriate game allows me to grab a short break without feeling guilty.
4. Plan Solo Errands or Outings
Running errands alone can feel like a mini-retreat. Whether it’s grocery shopping, taking a short walk, or grabbing a coffee, stepping out of the house for even a short time can help reset your mind and energy.
5. Set Boundaries for Work and Personal Time
As a work-at-home mom, I’ve learned to set clear work boundaries so I’m not constantly trying to multitask. I schedule focused work hours and let my family know when I need uninterrupted time. In turn, I also carve out intentional moments to step away from work and focus on myself.
6. Encourage Independent Play
Teaching kids to play independently benefits both them and you. Set up activities they can do on their own, such as puzzles, coloring books, or building blocks. This fosters their creativity while giving you a few moments to breathe.
7. Swap Childcare with Another Mom
If you have a trusted mom friend, consider swapping childcare for a few hours a week. This gives each of you a chance to enjoy uninterrupted alone time while your kids still have fun with their friends.
8. Make Use of Nap or Bedtime
If you have little ones who still nap, take advantage of that time for yourself instead of jumping straight into chores. At bedtime, resist the urge to scroll on your phone and instead do something that relaxes and rejuvenates you, like reading or taking a bath.
9. Get Support from Your Partner
I’m blessed with a supportive husband who understands my need for alone time. If you have a partner, communicate your needs and work together to ensure both of you get breaks to recharge. Even just 30 minutes of solo time while they handle bedtime can be a game-changer.
10. Release the Guilt
Most importantly, don’t feel guilty for taking time for yourself. You are a better mom when you are well-rested, mentally refreshed, and emotionally balanced. Alone time isn’t selfish—it’s self-care, and every mom deserves it.
Final Thoughts
Finding solitude as an at-home mom may seem challenging, but with a little creativity and intentional planning, it is possible. As someone who has been navigating motherhood, work, and personal growth from home, I can confidently say that making space for yourself is one of the best things you can do for both you and your family. Start with small moments, make them a priority, and watch how it transforms your daily life.
Do you have any favorite ways to carve out alone time? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
