Becoming a single mom means navigating a lot of firsts, and some of them can feel downright terrifying. I vividly remember the day my daughters’ dad had his first overnight and weekend visit with them. It was 4th of July weekend. The girls had never been away from me, and I was bracing myself for what I thought would be one of the hardest weekends of my life. But instead of staying home, worrying, and letting the sadness consume me, I made a different choice—I booked a trip to Phoenix.
It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Here’s how I turned that weekend into an empowering adventure and how you can do the same.
Step 1: Shift Your Mindset
The first hurdle was getting past the guilt. As moms, we’re often conditioned to think we need to be available 24/7, even when our kids are safely with their other parent. But here’s the truth: taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. I reminded myself that this time apart was healthy for my daughters and their relationship with their dad—and it was also a chance for me to recharge.
Step 2: Plan Something Just for You
I decided to go big. Instead of staying in my comfort zone, I chose a destination I’d never explored: Phoenix, Arizona. The excitement of planning a trip gave me something to look forward to, and the idea of exploring new places sparked a sense of adventure that I hadn’t felt in a long time.
Step 3: Embrace Self-Care
When I arrived in Scottsdale, I treated myself to some much-needed self-care. I got my hair and makeup done, which was such a confidence boost. It wasn’t just about looking good; it was about feeling good. Then, I booked a photo shoot among the iconic tall cacti of the desert. Those photos turned out to be a powerful reminder of how strong and capable I am.
Step 4: Explore and Immerse Yourself
While in Phoenix, I let travel do what it does best: heal and inspire. I took a road trip to the Grand Canyon, a place so breathtaking it made all my worries seem small in comparison. Standing at the edge of that vast canyon, I felt a renewed sense of perspective. I let myself fully immerse in the experience—the sights, the sounds, the sheer magic of being somewhere new.
Step 5: Reflect and Recharge
That weekend wasn’t just about escaping; it was about rediscovering myself. I came home feeling lighter, more confident, and ready to be the best mom I could be. By prioritizing my own happiness, I’d refueled in a way that benefited not just me but also my daughters.
Why This Matters for Single Moms
When you’re co-parenting, those first few weekends without your kids can feel incredibly daunting. But they’re also an opportunity to reconnect with yourself. Traveling doesn’t have to mean a grand adventure like mine; even a day trip or a staycation can be transformative. The key is to do something that brings you joy and reminds you of who you are outside of being a mom.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, that weekend in Phoenix was a turning point. It was a reminder that I’m not just a mom but also a woman with dreams, passions, and the right to live a fulfilling life. So, to all the single moms out there facing their own “firsts,” I encourage you to take that leap. Book the trip, get your hair done, have the adventure. Let travel take care of you, just like it took care of me.