After 13 years of working non-stop and juggling life as a mom to two young children (ages 6 and 4) in Singapore, I discovered true self-care for moms by taking a 4-month career break. It was not an easy decision, especially since we are a middle-income family, and I didn’t secure another job before resigning. Most of my friends and family called me “brave” and supported my decision.

The last three years of my career were mentally and physically exhausting. As a working mom, the stress compounded the already heavy mental load. My health was in shambles—I dealt with chronic pelvic pain, constant fatigue, and fell sick so often I needed six courses of antibiotics in a single year. I felt disengaged from my friends, struggled with my spouse at times, and often lost patience with my kids. Life felt like an overwhelming mess, and I kept hoping things would magically get better.

This career break was not just a pause from work—it was a lifeline.

Self-Care for Moms: 6 Ways to Prioritize Your Well-Being

Time is something every mom wishes for, yet it always feels like it slips through our fingers. My break allowed me to reclaim time—time that didn’t feel like it was racing past—to nurture myself as a struggling mother.

1. Focused on My Health and Listened to My Postpartum Body

Postpartum recovery had left me battling lingering health issues for years, including Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, which required minor surgery. Coupled with sleep deprivation and a weak immune system, I was constantly unwell.

With the career break, I could fully prioritize my health. I worked closely with my physiotherapist to address chronic pelvic pain through specialized rehab after my surgery. Most importantly, I was able to schedule ad-hoc sessions whenever I had symptoms without worrying about work leave, which greatly helped my recovery journey. I also caught up on overdue health check-ups like pap smear, flu shot and routine checks. Some days, I would rest when I felt tired, while on others, I’d attend yoga sessions to rebuild my energy. My chronic pain recovery is now on an upward trend, and my immunity has strengthened. To me, prioritizing your health is the most important self-care for moms.

P.S. Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), or Pelvic Venous Disorder (PeVD), is often misdiagnosed because its symptoms overlap with many other common gynecological conditions. Do not let any doctor dismiss your pain or tell you it’s ‘normal.’ Trust your instincts, seek a second opinion if needed, and advocate for yourself. Your pain is valid, and finding the right diagnosis is the first step toward relief.

2. Rediscovered Feeling and Looking Good as a Mom

Regular exercise became a consistent part of my life, improving both my physical and mental well-being. I gained muscle mass (though “mom-tum” is still here to stay), stayed antibiotics-free for months, and felt stronger. I also indulged in small joys like massages, beauty treatments, and even getting new piercings—reminders that self-care for moms can be about more than just physical health.

3. Enjoyed Solo Shopping Trips

For the first time in years, I could shop without rushing or distractions. One of my favourite places to shop is the supermarket. I leisurely browsed, read labels, and made informed decisions without someone tugging at my sleeve (or reminding the younger one not to break anything). These solo trips were surprisingly fulfilling, allowing me to reconnect with simple pleasures.

4. Decluttered and Reorganized My Home

Decluttering was a transformative process. Over a few weeks, I donated unused items and reorganized the chaos of kids’ toys and belongings. By implementing simple organizational systems my children could maintain, I transformed our home into a more functional space where everything (mostly) has its designated spot.

5. Reconnected with Loved Ones

I focused on the relationships that mattered most. As an introvert, I prioritized quality over quantity, cherishing moments of deep connection with non-judgmental friendships. Over the past few months, I also spent more time with my aging parents, knowing how limited our time together has been since my little family grew to four.

Most of the time, our parents simply want us to be present. Especially as Asian parents, they deeply appreciate it when we make the effort to participate in their daily lives. One thing I never imagined myself doing was waking at dawn to visit the wet market with my parents, buying the freshest seafood from their favourite fishmonger, and then sitting down to enjoy kopi and fried bee hoon under the still-dark sky. These simple moments not only strengthened our bond but also reminded me of the profound impact family connections and shared experiences can have on emotional well-being. Research further underscores how a strong social support system, combined with physical activity, is vital for nurturing a mother’s mental health.

6. Rekindled My Passion for Baking

Baking has always been my creative outlet and my form of mental therapy. During my break, I revisited cherished recipes, experimented with new ones, and even fulfilled small holiday orders. It was physically tiring yet mentally rejuvenating—a reminder of how hobbies can nurture our well-being and be a valuable part of self-care for moms.

Investing in self-care for moms creates a ripple effect, enhancing our relationships with our children

Moms often joke that our brains are like overworked computers, constantly running without a shutdown. While the break didn’t eliminate my mental workload (because, let’s face it, rarely anything does), it expanded my mental “hard disk space.”

Improved health, better relationships, and an organized home created a positive cycle. I was more patient with my kids (less yelling!), less overwhelmed, and better equipped to handle daily challenges.

6 Tips for Fellow Burned-Out Moms Considering a Career Break

1. Take a Longer Break Than You Think You Need

This is my #1 advice. If you think three months is enough, plan for five.

2. Under-Pack Your Schedule

Your goal is to slow down and recalibrate, not cram in a hundred to-dos.

3. Ensure Partner Support

Having your partner’s emotional and financial (just in case) support is crucial.

4. Save More Than You Think You’ll Need

Plan for at least one month of expenses for every month off. While travel is optional, having a cushion helps.

5. Explore Sabbatical Options

Some companies offer sabbaticals, allowing you to return to your role later.

6. Find or Rediscover a Hobby

Choose something accessible and sustainable. As a busy parent, you don’t want to spend time traveling or doing something costly. It can also be something your kids can enjoy with you—like baking, gardening, or crafting.

A Final Note from Me

As I write this, my break is coming to an end. While I may be financially stretched, my heart feels fuller than ever. I’m heading back to work with a clearer mind and a stronger sense of purpose. For me, the main driving force behind this decision was my health—because at the end of the day, nothing is more important than taking care of ourselves so we can care for others.

I understand that not every mom can take a long career break, as we all have different circumstances, whether it’s financial commitments, career goals, or other personal priorities. But self-care doesn’t always have to be a big leap. Even small, intentional steps—like taking a solo outing, rediscovering a hobby, nurturing meaningful relationships, or dedicating just 5–10 minutes a day to stretching, mindfulness, or quiet reflection—can create moments of renewal and joy in your busy life.

And if all that’s holding you back is a little courage, I hope this post encourages you to take that step—whatever it may look like for you.

You deserve it.