One of the most important things you can do as a parent is look after yourself.

While this may seem impossible at times, there are many reasons why you should look after your own health first when you are a parent.

Here are some reasons why and how to make more time for yourself:

You need to be re-fuelled to care for your children - You can’t care for your children when you are feeling overwhelmed and tired. It is natural to feel exhausted but there is only so long a person can keep going when burn out is threatening. To be a better parent you need to mind yourself first and that is a fact.

You will be a better parent for it - There is absolutely no question, once you have had the proper rest you will be a better parent for it. You will be able to tackle the kids head on and manage their bad behaviour or funny moments. It doesn’t mean you need to take off for several weeks but a few hours on your own to be you again can be everything. Do it and see the benefits.

You shouldn’t forget yourself - Parenting is the most important thing you will ever do in life but as important as it is, you shouldn’t forget yourself. You are still a vital part of the family who needs to be thought of and cared for just as much as the rest of the family. Forgetting yourself is one way to leave yourself at risk of burning out or forgetting yourself, who you are and why you do what you do. It is a terrible way to feel, lost and overwhelmed so imagine the rest and how much of a benefit it would be to you and take the opportunity to get that time.

Fit in time for you, away from the kids – Go and have a walk, see pals, swim, cycle, shop or go get a coffee alone. Whatever you love to do, take your time to put yourself first and be fabulous. Spend time with people you may not see often and really try to put yourself at the top of the list every few weeks. Maybe you can’t do this every week, but once a fortnight perhaps? Make a conscious effort to do so and tell your partner. Ask friends to meet and therefore, you are more likely to keep to it once you have told people about it.

Don’t feel guilty – You should never feel guilty about putting yourself first as it matters. A lot of parents struggle with giving themselves times as they feel they should be everything for everyone else. A good employee, a good worker, a good parent, a good child and a good person. It is natural that this causes a huge amount of stress and anxiety never mind considering the daily stress of life. It is tough but you can only fit the time in once you may an effort to do so. No one else can so do it for yourself and your children’s sake.