As a mum, it’s easy to pour your energy into everyone else—your kids, your partner, your work, your home—while putting your own needs on the back burner. Over time, that self-neglect can leave you feeling invisible, undervalued, and disconnected from who you really are.
If you’ve ever thought, “Does anyone even see me?”—you’re not alone.
But here’s the truth: You are worthy of love, care, and appreciation, especially from yourself. Self-love isn’t selfish. It’s the foundation of wellbeing, and the key to showing up for your family from a place of wholeness rather than depletion.
Here are the best self-love practices for mums who feel overlooked—designed to nourish your heart, lift your spirit, and remind you that you matter too.
1. Start with Gentle Self-Talk
If your inner voice is filled with criticism or guilt, it’s time for a mindset shift. You deserve to speak to yourself with the same kindness and compassion you offer your kids.
Try This:
- Replace “I’m failing” with “I’m doing my best.”
- Begin the day with a kind affirmation like, “I am worthy of love and care.”
Words shape our reality. Let yours be uplifting.
2. Create Tiny Moments Just for You
Self-love doesn’t require hours of free time (though that’s lovely!). It’s about small, consistent moments that reconnect you with you.
Try This:
- Sip your coffee in silence before the house wakes up.
- Read one page of a book, or listen to a podcast that inspires you.
- Take 5 minutes outside to breathe in fresh air.
These pockets of presence add up.
3. Reclaim Something You Love Doing
Remember what made you feel like you before motherhood? Reclaim it.
Try This:
- Revisit a hobby (even for 10 minutes a week).
- Sign up for that class or creative project.
- Make space for something that’s just yours—no guilt.
Self-love is remembering that you are a whole person, not just a role.
4. Write Yourself a Love Note
Yes, really. When was the last time you acknowledged yourself?
Try This:
Write a short note or journal entry that celebrates:
- What you’ve overcome
- What you’re proud of
- What makes you special
Pin it on your mirror. Read it when you forget how amazing you are.
5. Nourish Your Body with Intention
Fueling your body with love is an act of self-respect. You don’t need to follow a strict wellness plan—just tune in to what your body needs.
Try This:
- Drink more water.
- Eat nourishing foods that make you feel energised.
- Stretch or move in a way that feels good.
Honour your body like the powerhouse it is.
6. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Energy
When you feel overlooked, it may be because your needs are always last. Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out—they’re about showing yourself love and respect.
Try This:
- Say no without guilt when your plate is full.
- Ask for help instead of doing it all.
- Protect time in your week that’s just for you.
You teach others how to treat you by how you treat yourself.
7. Celebrate Small Wins Every Day
Motherhood is made of tiny victories—getting everyone dressed, keeping calm during chaos, showing up when it’s hard. These wins matter.
Try This:
At the end of each day, write down 1-3 things you did well.
Big or small, they’re proof that you’re doing an incredible job.
8. Surround Yourself with Uplifting People
You don’t have to do this alone. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your worth, not drain it.
Try This:
- Join a supportive mums’ group.
- Follow accounts online that promote self-love and real motherhood.
- Spend time with friends who lift you up.
You deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
You Are Not Invisible – You Are Invaluable
If you’ve been feeling overlooked, know this: you don’t need outside validation to begin loving yourself again. Self-love is the daily decision to treat yourself with kindness, even when the world is chaotic. Especially then.
Start small. Speak kindly to yourself. Take one moment today to honour your needs.
Because when you treat yourself like someone who matters—you become someone who remembers their worth.
And Mumma, you matter more than you know.
