From the December/January 2012 Issue of Working Mother

I thought of what to write in this space while on a treadmill—the first one I’d been on in forever. I had just plunked down some cash for a membership (just for me!) at a gym down the street and was taking advantage before I lost my nerve.

As I started to sweat, I thought, This really is a gift to myself. After years of putting every dollar into child care and every minute into my family and work, I was feeling pretty proud of myself for staking out even this small moment alone as a way to get healthy.

Believe me, I’m no martyr. But you know how it is: You work a full day or longer, then devote what energy you have left to your family. And once, the kids are asleep, you work on getting everyone ready for the next day and catch up on the day’s missed emails. By the time my husband and I fall into bed, it’s always later than we had hoped, and I’m too pooped to get up early to go for a power walk. (Should I admit that the hubby gets up at 5 a.m. some days to run?!) For me, it’s a vicious cycle that’s lasted for almost a decade now.

Yes, I see all you healthy working moms out there—you’re my inspiration! I know much of my problem with finding time (and spending money) for myself is all in my head. I know my family will survive without me for a few mornings—and actually, they’re all pretty proud of me for getting a move on, finally!

All of which is to say, in this season of giving, remember yourself. Whether it’s time alone, an evening out or a gym membership, think of it as an investment in yourself. You’re worth it.