Parents are funny creatures. We spend our days making sure our children are happy and content. But when it comes to ourselves, though?

Ha! Who has time for that?!

YOU!

You have time for that.

Trust me, you really do.

You need to.

Because you owe it to yourself and your children to be happy. And it’s not really so hard. It doesn’t have to take a long time or be odious or cost a lot.

There are many easy and simple things you can do TODAY to feel good great freaking fantastic about yourself:

1. Book yourself in for a haircut or blow-dry. It’s impossible to feel anything but happy when your hair looks fabulous. Shiny, gorgeous hair? Yes, please!
2. Dance. It’s just like exercise, but much more fun. Take a few minutes, turn on your favourite tunes, and let loose. Heck, even the kids could join you. You’ll feel like you’re back in the club scene, bottles and all.
3. Nap. Self-explanatory. Everything is better when you have enough sleep.
4. Call up an old friend. Parenting is busy work and we don’t always make time for our friendships. Very little brightens up your day quite like a good conversation with an old friend.
5. Get outside. Go for a walk. Smell the flowers. Bask in the sunlight. The fresh air will rejuvenate you!
6. Read a book. A book that isn’t written by Robert Munsch or Dr. Seuss. With actual chapters.
7. Paint your nails. Better yet, go get a manicure and pedicure. Your pretty hands will bring you happiness for at least a week.
8. Smile. That’s right, fake it till you make it. Because the funny thing is, it works every single time.
9. Eat a doughnut. I bet you’ve never seen anyone look angry while eating a doughnut. That’s because it’s not possible.
10. Write a list of things you’re grateful for. Focusing on the good in your life and seeing it written down will do wonders in lifting your spirits.
11. Go for a drive. Roll the windows down, turn the radio up, and cruise. Not to get all Florida Georgia on you, but there’s merit in what they say.  Who doesn’t love a good, long drive?
12. Meditate. Everyone who meditates is happier. It’s just the way it is. It’ll help clear your thoughts and any negativity you might be feeling.
13. Write a letter. An actual pen to paper letter. Handwritten for bonus points. Do you remember how good it feels to actually write something down? It’s everything.
14. Wear a dress. The simple act alone will make you feel all fancy. And fancy is fun! Nancy had it right all along.
15. Drink water. You’ll feel better. No one feels good when they’re dehydrated.
16. Take a bubble bath. With candles. And wine. Wait until the kids are asleep, though. Mommy Dearest isn’t a good look for anyone.
17. Buy yourself an extravagant coffee. A latte or frappe or something. Anything that’s more than your basic coffee. You’ll feel decadent and indulgent. And it will go wonderfully with your doughnut.
18. Watch an episode of The Facts of Life. Or Beverly Hills, 90210. Lose yourself in nostalgic bliss for a while.
19. Sign up for a class. Something you’ve always wanted to take. Beginner’s French, horseback riding, Italian cooking, the basics of HTML. Whatever floats your boat. Nothing feels better than a sense of accomplishment.
20. Blow bubbles outside. Colour with crayons. Do a puzzle on the floor. Take a lesson from your kids and do something mind-numbingly fun.

So, go ahead and get started.

Take a few minutes for yourself and I guarantee you won’t regret it. You’ll be surprised how the simplest of joys often bring the greatest of pleasures.

If you liked this, you might also like: "If You Are Sleep Deprived, You Need To Read This Right Now" or "Me-Time in the Morning Makes the Day a Little Brighter."