Over the course of the years, our team has spoken with and worked with thousands of parents. At various stages of life, situations and in various locations, one thing is true — it’s never too late to choose yourself.

How to Honor Your Journey and Embrace Your Inner Strength

Being a single parent is a journey marked by resilience, adaptability, and boundless love. Yet, amidst the responsibilities and the routines of life, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself—your dreams, well-being, and happiness. Choosing yourself doesn’t mean neglecting your children; it means showing up as your best self for them and for you.

Here are ten ways single parents can choose themselves and thrive, not just survive.

1. Redefine Self-Care as a Necessity, Not a Luxury

• Self-care is often portrayed as indulgent, but for single parents, it’s essential maintenance. Carve out moments—however brief—for activities that rejuvenate you. A cup of tea in solitude, ten minutes of stretching, or a quick journal entry can restore your energy.
• Remember, self-care is not selfish. It models healthy boundaries and self-worth for your children.

2. Honor Your Achievements—Big and Small

• Whether you managed a hectic morning, got through a tough day, or finally folded the laundry, celebrate your victories. Reflecting on achievements, even the seemingly minor ones, builds confidence and positivity.
• Keep a “win” journal—write down at least one thing you did well each day. Over time, you’ll have a powerful reminder of your strength and perseverance.

3. Pursue Personal Passions

• Your interests and talents matter. Even if time is limited, set aside space for the things that ignite your joy—painting, reading, gardening, or learning a new skill. These pursuits fuel your spirit and keep your identity vibrant.
• Share your passions with your children; let them see you as a whole person, not only as a parent.

4. Build a Support Network—And Use It

• Choosing yourself means accepting help when you need it. Reach out to friends, family, or community groups. Leaning on others isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.
• Join single parent support forums, local meetups, church or online communities. Isolation makes life harder than it has be. Connection fosters belonging and lightens the emotional load.

5. Set Boundaries and Protect Your Energy

• Boundaries create space for your well-being. Learn to say no to obligations that drain you and yes to what nurtures you. Explain these boundaries gently to your children—you’re teaching them invaluable life skills.
• Remember, your time and energy are precious; invest them wisely.

6. Practice Forgiveness—Toward Yourself

• Single parenting comes with inevitable mistakes and regrets. Be gentle with yourself. Instead of dwelling on perceived failures, choose compassion. Forgive yourself for missed opportunities, lost tempers, or imperfect days. Practice living in the now and looking forward.
• Self-forgiveness is an act of courage and grace—it frees you to move forward with hope.

7. Embrace Growth and Change

• Choosing yourself includes giving permission to evolve. Life circumstances shift, and so do you. Seek out new experiences, perspectives, and lessons. Whether it’s returning to school, changing jobs, or rediscovering an old hobby, growth is always within reach.
• Show your children that reinvention is possible at any stage of life.

8. Prioritize Your Health—Physical and Mental

• Your well-being is foundational to your family’s stability. Schedule regular check-ups, move your body daily, and pay attention to your mental health. If you need professional support, reach out without hesitation.
• Simple habits—hydration, nutritious food, deep breaths—make a profound difference.

9. Create Daily Rituals That Center You

• Rituals don’t have to be elaborate. It could be lighting a candle at breakfast, wearing your favorite caftan like this one from Valerie Perez, listening to your favorite music, or a nightly gratitude practice. These rituals anchor you amid the chaos, providing comfort and continuity.
• Invite your children into some rituals, and keep others just for you—both are meaningful.

10. Dream Boldly for Your Future

• Your dreams are valid and important. Picture the life you want to build—professionally, personally, emotionally. If you pray, do. It’s the time to add a supernatural charge to your list. Set goals, even if they’re small at first. Write them down, speak them aloud, and take steps toward them as time allows.
• Allow yourself to imagine and work to gift yourself a future that excites you. Hope and consistency are the sparks that lights the way forward.

Conclusion: You Are the Heart of Your Family—and Your Own Story

Choosing yourself isn’t about putting your needs ahead of your children’s; it’s about recognizing that your happiness, health, and fulfillment fuel the love and support you pour into your family. It’s about pouring from full rather than empty. By embracing self-care, setting boundaries, nurturing dreams, and forgiving yourself, you show your children what it means to live authentically and courageously.

To every single parent reading this: your journey is remarkable. It is yours and is special, as are you. You are worthy of the same love, care, and attention you so generously give — without condition. In choosing yourself, you gift your children and community not only a healthier parent but also the inspiration to choose themselves—now and always.