As a solo parent, “time off” often feels like a foreign concept. I don’t get the luxury of a full day to myself to recharge, much less a weekend away. It’s just not built into the rhythm of my life—when you’re the only one managing it all, breaks are a distant dream. That said, I’ve found a bit of an unexpected guilty pleasure in what could technically be called a “work trip.”

The surprise? Conferences.

I know—most people associate conferences with long days, endless networking, and maybe too many hotel breakfasts. But for me, they’re a rare opportunity to take a breath. Why? Because, as a speaker, I’m not stuck at a booth or shuffling around behind the scenes. Instead, I get to be a part of the event itself—leading discussions, soaking in the sessions, and connecting with industry peers in a way I don’t usually get to at home.

For a few days, I get to focus on something other than managing every last detail of family life. I’m not worrying about making lunches or doing the endless cleaning. I’m not constantly on alert, balancing schedules and appointments. I’m at a conference, immersed in conversations about my work, with a dash of fun added in as I socialize with people who understand the work I do.

It’s not quite a vacation. But it feels like one. I come home recharged, not from a day lounging by a pool or getting pampered (those are nice, but rare), but from a few days away where I can finally be a professional in the way that feels like a break from my regular life.

Do I feel guilty for enjoying these “work trips”? Meh, only a little. But I’ve learned that taking time to recharge, even in small bursts, is just as important for my well-being as anything else. And maybe I’ll get a full vacation someday—but for now, I’m learning to embrace these moments of peace wherever I can find them.