Let me start with a question: When was the last time someone said, “Thank you for everything you do,” and truly meant it? If you’re like me, the answer is probably, “I can’t remember.”
Motherhood is often a journey filled with invisible achievements. From early mornings preparing meals to late nights folding laundry, we carry out countless tasks daily without applause or recognition. I’ve often felt undervalued and unappreciated by my family. If you’re reading this and nodding along, I want you to know you’re not alone.
My Journey as a Mom
Let me share a bit of my story. I’m 41, a mom who does it all — making breakfast and lunch, cooking dinner for my family, straightening up the house every day, cleaning toilets and mopping floors, and washing clothes three to four times a week. On top of all that, I drive my kids to their activities every single day, even on Saturdays.
Despite all that effort, I sometimes wonder who truly appreciates what I do. Not even my kids seem to notice most times. And when I tell my mom I’m tired, she brushes it off, saying that I should be tired because back in her day, she did even more. But times have changed, and the mental load moms carry today is different and heavy.
From Corporate Burnout to Home-Based Hustler
A few years ago, I was laid off from my job as a sales and marketing coordinator at a prestigious company. The treatment there was horrible, and after experiencing that, I made a decision: I wouldn’t go back to working for someone else. Instead, I chose to start my own business so that I could spend time with my children and watch them grow up.
Running two small businesses from home hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. I get to be present for my kids, but I also face days where I feel drained and unseen. That’s why I started this blog: to share my journey and help other women who want to start a home-based business or are already doing it but need a reminder to appreciate themselves.
Why I’m Buying Myself a Trophy
Here’s something I’ve decided: I’m going to buy myself a trophy. I’ve never received a trophy for anything in my life. My kids have, my husband has, but not me. So I’ll give myself one for waking up early to get the laundry done, cooking, washing, preparing meals, cleaning the house, and being there for my family while managing my businesses.
I want to share this idea with other mothers out there. You can do the same — or create a certificate of appreciation and award it to yourself on your birthday, Mother’s Day, or even Valentine’s Day. Make it a yearly tradition. We deserve to celebrate ourselves.
How to Reward Yourself
Ready to join the Trophy Mom movement? Here’s how you can start rewarding yourself:
- Buy or Create a Trophy: There are online stores where you can design personalized trophies. You can order a custom trophy online or get creative and make your own. Add an engraving that speaks to you, like “Most Valuable Mom” or “Queen of Multitasking.”
- Create a Certificate of Appreciation: Use Canva or similar tools to craft a beautiful certificate of appreciation. Design a certificate that lists all your mom wins—big and small. Frame it and display it proudly.
- Start a Yearly Tradition: Pick a special day—your birthday, Mother’s Day, or even Valentine’s Day—to award yourself. Make it a yearly ritual to celebrate your wins.
- Host a Solo Celebration: Enjoy a special meal, light some candles, and toast to your achievements.
- Get Creative with DIY: Craft your own award using supplies from a local store.
- Take the Quiz: Wondering what kind of mom trophy you deserve? Take this fun quiz to find out!
Making Self-Care a Priority
Rewarding yourself isn’t just about a trophy; it’s about recognizing that you deserve care and love too. Here are some ideas I’ve found helpful:
- Schedule regular “me time” without guilt.
- Practice mindfulness and affirmations (download your free Mindfulness Affirmation Card).
- Start journaling to reflect on your accomplishments and dreams.
Practical Self-Care Tips
Motherhood can be overwhelming, but prioritizing self-care ensures you stay energized and mentally balanced. Here are a few practical ways to incorporate self-care into your busy life:
Morning Routines That Nurture You
- Wake up 10 minutes earlier to enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee.
- Practice deep breathing or a short meditation to set a calm tone for the day.
Creating Space for Creativity
- Find 15 minutes to work on a craft or hobby.
- Use digital journaling apps to track your thoughts and ideas.
Mindful Moments Throughout the Day
- Pause for gratitude reflections.
- Step outside for fresh air and a few grounding breaths.
Supporting Each Other
This space is a judgment-free zone where you can open up, share your struggles, and celebrate your wins. Let’s build a community where moms lift each other up and learn to value their contributions.
Resources for Busy Moms
Looking for more ways to care for yourself and thrive as a mom and entrepreneur? Check out these resources:
- The Busy Mom’s Guide to Self-Love: Nourishing Body, Mind & Soul
- Self-Care Strategies for Moms
- 50 Powerful Manifestation Journal Prompts to Help You Create Your Dream Life
Final Thoughts
Moms, it’s time to stop waiting for someone else to appreciate you and start celebrating yourself. You are the backbone of your family, the unsung hero of everyday life, and you deserve to be recognized—even if that recognition comes from you.
So, join me in the Trophy Mom movement. Buy yourself a trophy, create a certificate, or find another way to reward yourself. And don’t forget to download your Free Printable Mindfulness Affirmation Cards to start your journey to self-appreciation.
Because you, my friend, are a rockstar. And it’s time the world—and you—start acting like it.
Here is your first step….
Because you deserve it, Mom.
