06/19/2026
For years, I believed that taking care of myself had to come last.
There was always something more important to do.
Another appointment.
Another form to complete.
Another challenge to navigate.
As a parent supporting my oldest daughter through her journey with autism, ADHD, and a speech and language disorder, I became very good at caring for everyone else.
But I wasn't taking care of myself.
And eventually, I felt it.
The exhaustion.
The overwhelm.
The feeling that I had lost touch with who I was beyond being a caregiver.
Maybe you've felt that way too.
Many parents of children with special needs carry an enormous amount of responsibility. We become experts at advocating, supporting, planning, and managing.
Yet when it comes to our own needs, we often feel guilty for taking even a few minutes for ourselves.
Here's what I've learned:
Self-care isn't selfish.
It's not something you earn after everything else is done.
It's not a reward for being productive.
It's a necessity.
Because when you're constantly pouring from an empty cup, eventually there is nothing left to give.
But when you intentionally create moments of joy, rest, and connection, you begin to refill that cup.
And that's where real transformation starts.
This is one of the things I focus on in coaching.
Not adding more to your to-do list.
Not asking you to find hours of free time you don't have.
Instead, we explore simple, realistic ways to care for yourself within the reality of your life so that you can feel more energized, more grounded, and more like yourself again.
Because you deserve support too.
And because the healthiest version of you benefits everyone you love.
💛 Today, what is one small thing you can do to refill your cup with joy?
I'd love to hear your answer in the comments.
✨ Comment with one thing that helps you refill your cup, or send me a DM with the word "JOY" if you're ready to create more space for yourself without guilt. Let's talk about what that could look like for you.