Raising a child as a single mom is no walk in the park. It demands constant presence and responsibility, with no partner to tag in when I’m worn out.
The toughest part? There’s no one to share a glance with now and then. Most decisions, big or small, fall solely on me—often in urgent moments. I don’t have someone to watch my daughter even for half an hour if I suddenly need to step out. Every such situation calls for careful planning, logistics, and foresight. This is my everyday reality, and though it’s often draining, I’ve learned to handle it with routine.
That said, I admit I sometimes feel like an impostor when partnered parents look at me with understanding eyes and say they couldn’t do it—and that I’m a hero! Because I know my life includes something they don’t: weekends when my daughter is with her dad. I know she’s safe and loved then, and that gives me a peace only fellow parents truly get. Those days let me live again as the “grown woman without kids,” something many single moms can’t count on.
How Do I Spend That Time?
My top rule: I don’t let the weekend slip away. I avoid working through it or trying to catch up on chores. These hours are mine, and I fill them intentionally.
One favorite treat is catching a movie or a theater show—ones I wouldn’t watch with my daughter yet. A good film or thought-provoking play always inspires me, breaks the routine, and offers a fresh adult perspective.
I often organize meetups with girlfriends, too. These moments bring long, relaxed conversations without worrying about bedtime routines or rushing home.
Exercise is key on these weekends. I love going on long hikes or joining an intense workout. It refreshes me physically and clears my mind.
Sometimes I go solo for an outing—like visiting an exhibition or simply sitting in a café reading a book. Such quiet, solo hours are rare for parents, as weekdays rarely allow space for peaceful moments alone.
And of course, there are little “luxury moments”: a hair appointment, a massage, or a long, calm breakfast at my favorite bakery. These small things mean the world to me. And yes, I do go on dates then. Without going into details: it’s just as exciting and fun as back in college.
Why Does It Matter?
Some might think kid-free weekends are selfish, but it’s quite the opposite. These days recharge me so I can be patient, energetic, and present during the week. Without these breaks, I’d risk burnout and exhaustion.
This balance is the secret to giving my daughter the best version of me again and again. After all, she benefits more from a smiling, vibrant mom than a tired, worn-out parent.
Lucky Facts
I know many single moms face very different realities. Many don’t have the other parent involved or reliable in raising their child. That’s why I feel especially lucky that, while we didn’t work as a couple, my daughter’s dad and I collaborate wonderfully as parents. It’s a gift I’m grateful for every day, making my kid-free weekends filled with real freedom and joy, not guilt.
Honestly, I’m perfectly happy with this setup. I don’t miss living “in a family” every minute—this life feels complete to me, where both motherhood and womanhood have their place.
