From Mom Guilt to Self-Love: A Valentine’s Day Reminder

Valentine’s Day. The day of love, chocolates, and those overpriced roses that somehow vanish from every store by noon. For most moms, it’s also the day of last-minute class valentines, sugar-fueled chaos, and trying to convince yourself that a heart-shaped pizza totally counts as a romantic dinner.

But what if this Valentine’s Day, in between the candy hearts and crayon-colored love notes, you gave a little love to someone who often gets left behind in the daily shuffle?

You.

The Love You Deserve

As moms, we pour so much love into everyone else – our kids, our partners, even the dog who somehow gets more peace and quiet than we do. But when was the last time you showed yourself some love? Not just a quick self-care moment (though, let’s be honest, a solo grocery trip with a coffee in hand is a luxury), but real, deep love, the kind that says: I believe in you. I see you. Your dreams matter, too.

For moms who are studying, whether it’s finishing a degree, learning a new skill, or simply carving out time to read a book that isn’t about dinosaurs or bedtime battles, this love isn’t just a luxury. It’s a necessity.

Loving Your Dreams Like You Love Your Kids

Think about the way you encourage your little ones. When they stumble, you tell them to get up. When they doubt themselves, you remind them how capable they are. When they dream big, you don’t just cheer them on, you believe in them with everything you’ve got.

So why is it so hard to do the same for yourself?

Loving yourself means loving your dreams, too. It means recognizing that your goals don’t take away from your family, they enrich it. It means giving yourself permission to pursue what sets your soul on fire, even when the laundry is piled up and you’ve reheated your coffee three times.

A Valentine’s Day Challenge for Study Moms

This week, in the spirit of love, I challenge you to do three things:

1. Write yourself a love letter. No, really. Grab a pen and write down everything you admire about yourself – the things you’ve accomplished, the strength you’ve shown, the way you keep going even when it’s tough. Read it when doubt creeps in.
2. Give yourself the gift of time. Even if it’s just 15 minutes, carve out a moment for your studies, your dreams, or something that fuels your growth. No guilt allowed.
3. Say “I love you” to yourself. Look in the mirror, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you are worthy, capable, and deserving of everything you’re working toward.

This Valentine’s Day, love your family, hug your kids, maybe even enjoy a candlelit dinner if you can swing it. But above all, don’t forget to love yourself, too. Because a mom who loves herself – her dreams, her growth, her journey – is unstoppable.

Printable of the Week

To make self-love a little more fun (and actually doable), I’ve put together a Mom’s Self-Love Bingo packed with small, feel-good moments you can squeeze into your busy day. Download it, play along, and let’s celebrate the amazing mom (and woman) you are!

💖 Happy Valentine’s Day, Study Moms. Your dreams are worth it. 💖

Ikimemo,
Your fellow study mom