Being a first-time stay-at-home mom and wife can be amazing, but let’s be real—it’s a lot. Between cooking dinner, changing diapers, journaling, and singing Cocomelon on repeat, some days I feel like I barely have time to shower, let alone sit down and work on a hobby.

At the same time, I don’t want to be without my son. It’s been an adjustment—finding that balance between being fully present as “mom” while still holding onto the parts of me that make me me. Over time, I’ve learned that I also need little outlets just for myself. For me, that’s been coloring, reading, and especially making fun mugs.

Today, I want to share how I’ve been learning to balance motherhood with my creative side—and hopefully encourage you to carve out a little space for yourself, too.

How I Make Time for Myself

During my son’s mini naps, I started making a choice: instead of napping with him, I’d use that window of time to work on something for myself. Sometimes that means designing a mug on the computer, sometimes finishing one I’ve been working on.

I’ve always loved mugs. Anytime I travel, I bring one back as a souvenir (and yes—shot glasses, too!). So when I needed a hobby that felt fun and creative, mugs were the natural choice.

I never imagined I’d have a pantry overflowing with mugs I designed myself, but it’s brought me so much joy. It’s even helped me jumpstart other goals I’d been putting off. That’s when I realized how important it is to have a hobby—something that lights you up and adds joy to your day-to-day life.

Why Creative Hobbies Matter

Right now, my two main hobbies are designing mugs and Muay Thai. Both allow me to release stress and get back in touch with myself.

Although I love being a mom more than anything, I’ve learned I also need an identity outside of motherhood—just a little “me time.” Recently, I’ve been getting back into my 5 AM routine: wake up before the baby, take a Muay Thai class, spend time with God, and work on my content like the job I want it to be. Waking up a couple of hours earlier gives me time to focus on my goals and start the day centered and energized.

Top Three Benefits of Creative Outlets

1. Self-Expression – Creativity allows me to show who I am beyond my role as mom.
2. Stress Relief – Hobbies help me unwind and process the ups and downs of daily life.
3. Identity Outside of Motherhood – It’s a reminder that while motherhood is a huge part of me, it isn’t all of me.

Quick Tips That Worked for Me

• Find your best time. For me, that’s 5 AM and nap time (if he decides to nap, lol).
• Have a designated space. I keep my supplies neatly organized and out of reach of little hands.
• Set small, realistic goals. My long-term dream is to sell my mugs online, but first, I gave myself permission to just have fun and learn the craft.

A Little Mommy Reminder 💛

It’s not about being perfect—or waiting for the “right moment.” It’s about having an outlet, finding joy, and giving yourself permission to just be you.

Your fun doesn’t have to stop because life is hectic. In fact, that’s exactly when you need it most. If you fall behind or miss a few days, don’t beat yourself up. Just pick back up when you can.

You’ve got this, mama. Carve out time for yourself—you’ll have more energy for your little one and a clearer mind for everything else. And trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Thanks for stopping by! Let’s connect on Instagram and TikTok @babybrainclub2 where I share extra content, sneak peeks, and community highlights.

~ God Bless ~