Have you ever Googled “self care challenge” while reheating your coffee for the third time and dodging a Lego minefield? If so, you’re exactly where you need to be.
Because here’s the truth: moms are busy. Not “I-have-a-lot-on-my-plate” busy—more like “I’m-spinning-15-plates-while-a-toddler-screams-about-toast” busy.
That’s why this 30 day self care challenge was created just for you.
No perfect morning routines. No pressure to suddenly become a zen goddess. Just real, doable ideas for the real-life chaos of motherhood. Whether you’ve got toddlers, teens, or a mix of both—this is about you taking a breath. Even if it’s just 5 minutes long.
So pour that coffee (and drink it warm this time, I believe in you), because your self-care journey starts now.
You can find the downloadable printable checklist at the bottom of the article. :)
💡 How This Self Care Challenge Works
This self care challenge is intentionally simple, because let’s be honest—moms don’t need another thing on their to-do list.
Here’s what to expect:
- One small activity each day
- Takes 5–20 minutes max
- Covers mental, emotional, and physical well-being
- No guilt if you skip a day—just pick up where you left off
- Designed for busy moms (a.k.a. superheroes in yoga pants)
Each week follows a gentle theme to keep things fresh but familiar.
📆 Your 30 Day Self Care Challenge
Because sometimes just brushing your hair is the win.
Week 1: Reset Your Mind
Day 1: Make a “me-time” promise and write it down
Start with intention. What do you need this month?
Day 2: Drink your morning coffee/tea in silence – no phone
Just five quiet minutes can feel like a retreat.
Day 3: Write down 3 things you’re grateful for
Stick them on the fridge, the mirror, or your forehead—wherever you’ll see them.
Day 4: Do a 10-minute stretch or yoga routine
No equipment, no pressure. YouTube is your bestie.
Day 5: Go to bed 30 minutes earlier
You deserve rest, not just survival mode.
Day 6: Declutter one tiny area
Your purse, a drawer, your toddler’s toybox (if you’re brave). Small space = mental space.
Day 7: Say “no” to something that drains you
PTA, that one group chat, the “just one more” bedtime request (kidding… kinda).
Week 2: Nurture Your Body
Day 8: Go for a walk (alone or with kids—but no phone)
Fresh air = reset brain.
Day 9: Take a guilt-free nap
Even if it’s 15 minutes while Paw Patrol babysits.
Day 10: Create a “happy playlist”
Dance break coming soon.
Day 11: Read something just for fun
Yes, even 3 pages count. Parenting books don’t.
Day 12: Try a 5-minute guided meditation
Use Insight Timer, Headspace—or just breathe in a closet.
Day 13: Text or call a friend you miss
You’re allowed to need connection too.
Day 14: Say something kind to yourself in the mirror
Yes, it’s awkward. Yes, it matters.
Week 3: Connect and Reflect
Day 15: Do something creative—doodle, bake, journal
No Pinterest perfection needed.
Day 16: Make a DIY spa moment
Face mask, bubble bath, or lotion that smells fancy.
Day 17: Eat one meal without multitasking
No cleaning mid-bite. Just eat.
Day 18: Write down 5 things you’re proud of
Keeping small humans alive totally counts.
Day 19: Clean your phone screen + delete 5 unnecessary apps
Digital space = brain space.
Day 20: Dance to your favorite song like no one’s watching
Include the kids—or lock the bathroom door and go solo.
Day 21: Do something that made the old you happy
What did you love before becoming “Mom”?
Week 4: Reclaim Your Joy
Day 22: Light a candle and do nothing for 10 minutes
Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Sit and breathe.
Day 23: Say out loud what you need right now
Even if it’s just “a moment alone in Target.”
Day 24: Ask for help with one task
Because superheroes delegate too.
Day 25: Pick one thing to stop feeling guilty about
Write it. Rip it. Burn it (safely). Let it go.
Day 26: Unfollow 5 social media accounts that drain you
Protect your peace.
Day 27: Plan one thing you’re looking forward to
A show, a solo coffee, hiding in the laundry room.
Day 28: Do a simple breathing exercise
Inhale 4. Hold 4. Exhale 4. Repeat.
Day 29: Make a list of your support system
Even if it’s your dog and a group chat.
Day 30: Celebrate yourself!
You did it. Reflect, journal, or just dance in your kitchen. You’re amazing.
✨ Printable Version of the Self Care Checklist
Want to make this challenge even easier?
👉 Download the free printable checklist here:
Print it out. Stick it on the fridge. Check it off in crayon if you must—progress is progress!
💬 Final Thoughts: Self Care Isn’t Selfish – It’s Survival
Let’s get something straight: self-care is not about being selfish. It’s not about escaping your family, or pretending the laundry doesn’t exist.
It’s about you remembering that you matter, too.
I used to believe that being a “good mom” meant putting everyone else first. There were days when the toddler was pummeling the sofa with the vacuum hose, dinner was burning, and I was just standing there thinking, “When did I stop mattering in my own life?”
Sound familiar?
I still remember the first time I actually drank my coffee hot after two years of lukewarm misery. It was a borderline spiritual awakening.
And no, it didn’t require a luxury spa weekend—just ten minutes of silence, a walk around the block, or finally saying no to a draining playground chat.
👩👧👦 Want More Heartfelt Mom Reads?
If this post spoke to you, you’ll love these:
- How to Stop Being a Helicopter Parent (With Love)
- Parenting with Love and Logic: A New Mindset About Parenting
They’re full of real-life advice, mindset shifts, and encouragement—no judgment, just support.
- Pin this post for later so you can come back when you need a reset: Visit my Pinterest
- Share this self care challenge with a fellow mom who needs a little love today
- Comment on Pinterest: What’s the biggest self-care struggle you face right now? Let’s talk about it.
