Wearing All the Hats
- Alice Ranker
- Apr 12
- 3 min read
As women, we wear so many hats. We’re mothers, daughters, partners, friends, caretakers, professionals, planners, peacemakers—the list is endless. Some days it feels like we’re juggling a dozen roles all at once, trying to be everything to everyone. And while we’re so often the heart of our families, our communities, our workplaces… where do we fit in?
I’ve had those moments—when the to-do list is longer than the day, when I'm pouring into everyone else and forgetting to check in with myself. When I realize I’ve given so much that there’s not much left in the tank. I am often not my true self in these moments. I feel frustrated and resentful. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And more importantly, it doesn’t have to stay that way.

The truth is, we can’t do it all—and we weren’t meant to. One of the most powerful things we can do is take a step back and ask: What actually matters today? Some things can wait. Some tasks can be shared. Some expectations—especially the unrealistic ones we place on ourselves—can be released.
Start with your non-negotiables: the things that align with your values, bring you joy, or support your well-being. Give yourself permission to prioritize those first. Then take a look at your daily and weekly commitments. Where can you simplify? Where can you say no? Where can you ask for help? Saying no is also a permission that you give yourself. It may take practice before it feels normal.

This is something I’m learning every day: taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When I prioritize rest, joy, and connection, I show up more fully in all my other roles. I’m a better me and I'm a better partner, mother, friend, and professional when I feel grounded and nourished. When I pour from overflow instead of my reserve.
So how do we make room for that? Here are a few gentle, realistic ways to nurture yourself—even on the busiest weeks:
🌿 Create a Morning or Evening Ritual
Start or end your day with something that centers you—a cup of tea in silence, a walk around the block, a few deep breaths, a gratitude list. It doesn’t have to be fancy or long—just something that reminds you that you matter. (I read in the mornings. In this season, starting my day off quiet and slow has been a real necessity.)
💗 Schedule Self-Care Like It’s an Appointment
Whether it’s a workout class, a quiet bath, or a solo coffee run, put it on your calendar. Treat it like any other important commitment—because it is. (Soaking has been my go to in this season. Spring is still cool at night and soaking seems to melt away the stress and give me a calm space to process.)
📖 Check in With Yourself Regularly
Ask yourself: How am I doing—really? What do I need right now? Giving yourself space to reflect helps you reconnect with your own needs, especially when life feels chaotic. (You know this is where I am going to remind you to journal. Your feelings, emotions, and experiences sound different once they are on paper. Getting all of that out of your head will make room for your heart to process.)
👭 Make Time for Friendship
Call a friend. Share a meal. Go on the day trip you keep talking about. Female friendship is powerful and healing—it reminds us we’re not alone and gives us space to simply be. (This is a must! I have always been fortunate to have the best girlfriends. Spending time together feeds my soul.)
🌸 Say No Without Guilt
Saying no doesn’t make you less kind, capable, or strong—it makes you wise. (Read that again.) Protecting your time and energy is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself and those around you. (I promise it will make a difference. I know it will be challenging to start and when you haven't had boundaries in an area, people don't like it when you start. But, this isn't for them, it's for you. In order to show up as your best self, you can't show up to everything and for everybody.)
You are not just the sum of the roles you play. You are a whole person—deserving of care, rest, joy, and connection. Life will always be full, but when we learn to prioritize ourselves alongside everything else, we don’t just mangae to get through anther day or check things off our list, we are acutally present for our life.
So here’s your gentle reminder: you’re doing beautifully. Keep showing up for yourself, too. 💕
And, if you are struggling in any particular area please reach out. This is where coaching may be beneficial to you in creating new intentions or in re-framing some areas of your life.
Have the very best week! Take care of you!!
Much love,


Love this! So many hats we wear, your advice is so important! 💛