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How to Actually Enjoy ‘Me Time’ Without Feeling Guilty

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably laughed at the idea of “me time.” Between school runs, snacks, extra-curricular activities, bath time, there’s not much space left for you. And if you do sneak away for a coffee or a night out? That guilt creeps in. Me time isn’t selfish. It’s survival. A little breathing space makes you calmer, happier, and way more fun to be around. You will still have all those thigs to do, but you will approach them feeling refreshed. So how do you actually enjoy time to yourself without the guilt? Let’s talk. Start small You don’t have to book a week in Bali (though… wouldn’t that be nice?). Even 20 minutes with a book, or a walk without anyone saying “Mummmmm” is a good start. Remember who it’s for When you take a break, everyone benefits. You get your patience back, and your kids get the best version of you. That’s a win-win. Reframe the guilt Instead of thinking, “I’m leaving my kids,” try, “I’m teaching them it’s okay to look after yourself or be looked after someone I trust.” That’s a lesson they’ll thank you for one day (probably when they have littlies of their own). Do the things that actually fill your cup Scrolling TikTok for an hour might be entertaining, but does it leave you feeling refreshed? Choose the things that actually recharge you, like yoga, catching up with a friend, reading, or simply sitting quietly and enjoying a cupppa. Make it official Put it in the calendar, arrange the care, and don’t cancel on yourself. You wouldn’t cancel a doctor’s appointment, so why treat your own downtime like it doesn’t matter? Accept the help This is the hard part for so many parents. You don’t have to do it all alone. Let grandparents step in, call a friend, or (you guessed it!) book a babysitter. Asking for help doesn’t make you less capable, it makes you human. Imagine if it was your bestie If your best friend said she felt guilty for ducking out to a yoga class, what would you say? Probably, “Hey, you deserve it!” So, say the same thing to yourself. Me time isn’t a luxury. It’s the thing that makes you a better parent, partner, and person. So, ditch the guilt, your littlies will be fine, and you’ll come back refreshed and ready to jump back into the chaos. And that’s where we come in. Coastal Babysitters aren’t just “someone to watch the kids.” We’re your little one’s playmate, homework helper, bedtime buddy, so you can head out the door knowing they’re happy and safe. Ready to book in that guilt-free me time? Book your sitter today and give yourself the break you and your kids deserve. BOOK A SITTER