Social media is a blessing until it isn’t. It’s a great way to connect with people that you haven’t talked to in years. I’ve reconnected with friends from high school and college through Facebook. A few weeks ago, I got together with a friend from elementary school. It wouldn’t have happened if not for social media. It’s also a good tool to help get the word out and allow people to rally around a cause.

I've learned the hard way that sometimes mama needs a time out. Here are some in your face signs that you need a break. Like right now.

Then there’s the down side. You know the one where we see someone else’s posts and think they have the perfect life. We assume their life is so much better than our own. We look at posts and think that mom has it all together. Her kids are always perfectly put together. She and her husband always make time for each other. Look how nice their home is! If you see that and you decide to try and keep up with that, it will drive you crazy. It’s a clear sign that you need a break from social media.

Here’s the good news. No one is that perfect. Those snap shots are just that – shots of a moment. In reality, that mom probably had to beg her kids to stand together and to keep those clothes clean for that picture. The wisdom she shares that sounds like she’s on top o it all – well, that wisdom has been hard earned. It’s easy to think that motherhood is supposed to look a certain way. If I’ve learned nothing else from motherhood, I’ve learned to decide for myself what motherhood will look like for me.

The other good news is that I’m seeing more moms tell their motherhood truth. Sometimes it’s exhausting. There are many times you just need a breather. As for me, I’ve learned to recognize when it’s time for me to take a break. The signs show up and I know I need to take action – for myself. I’m trying to get to the point where I don’t need these nudges to know mama needs a time out!

How how I know you need a break (and I do too)
You’re snappy – The smallest things are getting on your nerves. Things that would normally just roll off your back are now tap dancing on your last nerve.
You’re exhausted – You do all. the. things. Some days, you’re fully engaged and all in. You’re running on all cylinders. Other times all of the things just makes you feel like you want to take a nap. The routine is getting to you and you need to hit the reset on it all.
Everything seems overwhelming – Going to the park, doing laundry, cooking dinner just seems like doing too much. Everywhere you turn there’s something that needs to be done and it all seems to have your name on it.
Learning to lighten my load

Being snappy –  I try to remember that the load I’m carrying is by choice. So instead of snapping at other people, I need to remember that doing my best is enough. It’s OK if a ball drops here and there when the most important things are taken care of. It reminds me and the people around me that I’m human. I can only offer my best. That will have to do.

Being exhausted – Speaking up and saying, “I’m exhausted” is a helpful step. Most times you have to say it for other people to recognize it. So when I say I’m going to lay it down for a bit, or I’m headed out for some me time, it’s not a shock to anybody.
Being overwhelmed – It’s so easy to get to that point. I’m a wife, a mom, a writer and a bunch of other things. I’ve learned to ask for help. When I got married, I entered a partnership. I don’t do my husband any favors when I try to carry the world on my shoulders. He starts to think that I’m good and I can handle it all because I seem to be doing it. The thing is, just because you can handle a lot doesn’t mean you have to. Being superwoman 24/7 takes it’s toll. Speaking up about where I could use help makes all the difference.
I wanna know, what are the signs for you that you need a time out? 
Camesha

12 Comments on You need a break. Here’s how I know.

  2. I think we all need a break from social media and from life from time to time. I use travel to get away and regroup, and I know I need a break when I feel the itch to get to my next destination.

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  6. Going on a social media break is necessary. I know I had to take one because I just got tired of everyone talking about the same thing. It’s very important to know when it’s time to take a break

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  7. I know I need a break when I get overwhelmed and exhausted. I dont mind giving myself break if I dont I will shut down.

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  8. Sometimes for me it can just be a simple case of cabin fever…being in the same place too long and just wanting a change of scenery.

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  9. Great points. I know I need a break when I keep seeing the same stuff over and over again (same story, topics, etc.). I also agree that being snappy is a sign. It’s my #1 sign that I need to step away from social media. Also, I can get agitated and irritated with the content and updates, those are also signs.

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  11. When I have too many things popping up on my screen I am often reminded that I put myself in the situation and can remove myself. But it also comes by first admitting that I am tired like you said. So I try to monitor my frustration levels and be aware/mindful.

    Reply

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