Question: I am presently not working, and my job is just to look after my 15 months baby 24/7 which is making me frustrated, and I am staying with my in-laws with the constant whining of my mother-in-law. 

I feel I am not able to find personal time to relax or do what I like to do. Even though I get time to relax when my baby is asleep, I don't feel the time is enough for me to relax. I want to start a hobby or read books but I am unable to find time or, even though I find it, I am not in a state to open a book. I am open for suggestions on what I should do.

Answer: 
I think the critical part to finding more time is to let go of the need to "just to look after your child". As parents we might think that doing constant activities with and for the child is our job, when in fact: 

> 
> The more we do (or toys do)…
> 
> 
> * the less our child does
> * the more our child thinks she needs us (or toys) to do for her
> * the less confident, capable, creative and fulfilled she feels[1](http://www.janetlansbury.com/2013/05/stop-entertaining-your-toddler-in-3-steps-2/)
> 
> 
> 

Free yourself from the need to entertain your child 24/7 while he or she is awake. Make sure your child is learning how to play independently without constant interaction with you. Of course you'll still need to provide the loving support that the child needs, checking in on a regular basis, and encouraging them. There are several books and articles on how to do this, including "Stop Entertaining Your Toddler (In 3 Steps)", which is the source for the quote above. 

Some ideas for hobbies to take up while your child plays independently:

1. Cooking or baking: Pick up a few new cookbooks from the library and try new recipes. Get some plastic food and pots and pans to put on the floor for your child to play with nearby. Or have him or her sit in a high chair with crayons or [sensory trays](http://dirtandboogers.com/25-sensory-tray-ideas/)
2. Photography: get outside with your camera and your kid and take some pictures; read books on photography and find exercises to try. Let your child play with grass, bugs, flowers, sand, dirt, rocks, or balls and bubbles.
3. Learn how to play a musical instrument: get some toy musical instruments too, like maracas, xylophone, tambourine, etc. for your kid to play along
**Your baby is a hobby!**

Your beautiful child is a commitment. At 15 months, you've been through the infant stage, one of the tougher ones. Your child is around the point where he'll/she'll be walking. 

*This is the fun part!*

You're almost at the point where you can take your baby to the park. He'll want to take little walks outside, or get pushed in a buggy. What on earth could be more exciting than having a little person who trusts you and *wants* to be with you and spend time with you?

Your child will grow. Pretty soon, he'll start finding his own hobbies. Then he'll decide what he wants to do when he grows up. Then he'll be gone. You will have, in theory, all the time in the world. And, unless I miss my guess, you'll hate it. You will miss this, believe it or not. This stage only comes once in your child's lifetime. Savor it. Make it a hobby.

**Other hobbies...**

As for other things that you can do when you have a spare minute ('cause yes, you still get to keep a *little* of your sovereignty ;P) I suggest getting a kindle. I love my kindle. You can take it with you to lunch and read while eating, between your and your child's bites. You can have it in your lap in a chair while watching your child play in the living room. It's a great tool.

While learning a musical instrument has been suggested, given your current situation and the neediness of the child, this seems like it could present a bit of a challenge. However, listening to music is an amazing thing. And by music, I don't mean just pop. Branch out! Try some [classical](http://www.gumballmachiner.com/_-favorite-vivaldi-songs-will-get-hooked) music, or even some [jazz](https://quinersdiner.com/2016/02/19/carlos-jobim-and-herbie-hancock-jam/)! Do a little research and find out what to listen *for* in whatever category you decide you listen to. Become an expert! Your music player will be your best friend.

God bless you and your child!