It’s Okay to Go Away: Finding Time to Recharge

Caroline Godin often finds herself overwhelmed with a full plate of responsibilities, but she stresses the importance of finding time to rest and recharge. 

One of my teens was glued to his phone while going into the fridge. I watch as he struggled to single-handedly uncap the milk, pour a glass (while leaving the door open), and recap and return the milk. His eyes never left his phone. It’s almost impressive, but for the number of times he’s nearly dropped, spilled, or broken things because one hand is too busy. If only he’d pause and pay full attention. 

I’m not one to talk. 

Full Plate 

We mamas are juggling a lot, too much sometimes. I can’t count how many times I’ve thrown random items in the laundry basket on my way down or up the stairs to put them away. Who knows how often I don’t finish a task because I’m distracted by four others? A mother once told me that God should have made moms more like an octopus, because we need more hands. 

While I manage three kids, two parents, a couple of jobs, and a house, I’m bound to slip up. Sometimes the sheer stress of one task is too much, then another responsibility begs for my attention before I can finish the other. It’s no wonder I feel I can’t get anything done; my plate is too full. 

Time Away 

We’re about to head to our annual vacation in the high mountains, away from cell service, electricity, and running water — unless you count the brook. We dry camp in northern Vermont and I look forward to shutting off the world for that week every year. Some think it’s crazy to camp with no hookups and no facilities, but we love it. The main reason is simply because I’m unreachable. 

Before leaving, I button up as much work as I can, setting away messages and leaving instructions — and the rest I leave to God. I can no longer help anyone else; they can no longer reach me. 

This year, however, is harder. 

Letting Go 

My parents have needed me more and more, and I never mind helping them. My kids have busier schedules than ever, and I love that they’re involved. My work is picking up in places, and I want to earn a living. I can’t have my hand on all the things and go away from civilization at the same time. I need to let go.  

Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7) 

Like my son glued to his phone and barely managing — I do speak to him about putting it down; it’s a constant struggle — I need to put my full plate down sometimes and pay full attention to my needs. Even Jesus rested (Mark 4:38), so I too need to go away and recharge. 

I still have worries, though, but I need to let them go as soon as they come. 

Recharge for Better Focus 

It feels good to rest up. I can focus better, see things more clearly, and feel energized to retackle some of those tougher situations. When my hands, feet, and head aren’t all going in so many directions at once, I can complete one task at a time more easily. I’m not so overwhelmed and tense. In short, I’m better at my job as a mama (and daughter). 

It’s hard to find time to go away and rest, but we need to. We weren’t meant to be Energizer Bunnies. If it’s only a few extra minutes in the shower, or two more seconds in the car before picking up a kiddo, take it when you can get it. 

And mama, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Who among us wouldn’t help another? If you need five minutes alone or help planning a getaway, ask whoever you can. You’re worth recharging. 

Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Caroline Godin
Images: Canva