I have a confession to make, and it’s one that feels a little heavy.
This past year, I ended up in the hospital three different times. Three. One minute I’m trying to be the “good” mom and the “perfect” wife, and the next, I’m hooked up to an IV because of dehydration, pure exhaustion, and asthma flares triggered by stress.
My body literally had to shut down just to get me to sit still.
I have three beautiful daughters—all between 19 and 23. They’re adults. I have a husband who loves me and two dogs who, let’s be honest, probably contribute to the chaos just as much as the humans. I love them all fiercely. But I’ve realized that I’ve been pouring from a cup that isn’t just empty… it’s cracked.
Every year, I tell myself that this is the year I’m going to focus on me. I make these big plans in December, and then January hits. Suddenly, someone needs laundry done, or someone is stressed about school, or there’s a crisis that “only Mom” can fix. By February, I’ve slipped right back into that tired wife and mom role, putting my own goals on a shelf to gather dust.
But 2026? It has to be different. It has to.
I can’t keep ending up in a hospital bed because I was too busy making sure everyone else’s bed was made. My daughters are at an age where they need to see what a healthy, self-respecting woman looks like. They need to see me say, “I’d love to help, but I have a goal I’m working on right now,” or even just, “I’m resting today, so you’ll have to figure dinner out yourself.”
The truth is, if I don’t pour into myself, I’m eventually going to have nothing left to give them anyway. My health isn’t a luxury; it’s the foundation for everything else.
So, this year, I’m giving my family the gift of a mom and wife who is actually healthy. Who is hydrated. Who isn’t wheezing from stress. I’m chasing my goals with the same energy I used to give away to everyone else.
They’re going to have to figure some things out on their own. And honestly? They’ll be just fine. It’s time I finally figure out how to be fine, too.
What are your thoughts about the The Year I Stop Running on Empty Please share in the comments below. I really would love to know.
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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Putting myself last literally put me in the hospital this year. 🏥 No more. For 2026, I’m choosing hydration, goals, and the power of “figure it out yourself.” You can’t pour from an empty cup! #LavandaMIchelle
Happy New Year!