Hello, dear Mom. How are you holding up? I mean, truly? You might say you’re okay, but I can see that’s not the case. And that’s completely understandable. I’m not okay, either.
In fact, I don’t think I’ve met a mother who feels genuinely “okay.” It’s time we remove the word “okay” from our vocabulary. Most days, motherhood is a mix of extremes—unbelievable joy and overwhelming frustration, love that fills your heart and fatigue that weighs you down.
These opposing feelings can be draining. Yes, even the joyful moments can exhaust you. The constant fluctuations in emotion can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. As writer Lisa Marlow aptly puts it, motherhood can leave you feeling “soul-weary.” This is especially true if you’re neglecting your own needs.
I know, I know. Taking care of yourself can feel like just another item on your never-ending to-do list. How can you prioritize yourself when little ones depend on you? It often feels like there’s nothing left for you.
Please hear me out, Mom. I’ve walked in your shoes. I’ve sat with tears streaming down my face while my child cried, overwhelmed and fatigued. I’ve gazed out at the chaos of my home, questioning how I ended up here. I’ve felt the fraying of my spirit and wondered if I might crack. I’ve even contemplated walking away, just to escape it all.
What I’ve learned through years of parenting is that those feelings of wanting to escape shouldn’t be ignored; they should be acknowledged. Consider this: Motherhood is a beautiful blend of joy, wonder, and, yes, immense difficulty. But when the challenges overshadow the joy, it’s time for a break. You’re feeling drained because that’s exactly what’s happening to you.
You might be thinking, “But I love my children!” with a dash of guilt surfacing. Here’s the reality: love knows no bounds, but energy does. While love powers you, energy fuels you. Without energy, even the most profound love can leave you stagnant. Refueling is essential, and it’s best to do so before you hit rock bottom.
You may not want to hear it, but replenishing your energy as a mother often means stepping away from your kids. Sorry, but it’s true. You can’t fill your gas tank while driving. You may believe that being constantly present is beneficial for your children, but it’s actually counterproductive. You may be physically there, but you may not be fully engaged.
Trust me when I say that your children need a mother who is not running on empty. They need a mom who can offer both love and energy. They deserve a parent who has taken the time to recharge and can truly enjoy their presence.
I understand this notion might feel overwhelming, but here’s the encouraging news: it doesn’t have to take much time. Just like filling your car’s gas tank only takes a few minutes, a short break can also provide lasting benefits. Even an hour or two dedicated to replenishing your spirit can be transformative. Visit your favorite coffee shop, a bookstore, or a gym—anywhere that helps you reconnect with yourself. Bring along a book, your phone, or a journal. Perhaps all you need is a short nap.
If you find it challenging to secure someone to watch your kids for a little while, consider joining a local moms group. If the first one you attend isn’t a good fit, keep searching. They’re out there. Reach out to community centers, churches, or simply search online for “mom groups” in your area. Connecting with just one like-minded mother can be a game-changer.
Whatever you do, don’t let the way you’re feeling now define your motherhood journey. Yes, there are tough moments, and yes, it can be exhausting. But if you feel like you’re teetering on the brink, that’s your cue to take a step back and recharge. It may be difficult, but you’ll be astonished by how much a little refueling can shift your perspective on motherhood.
The most significant barrier is letting go of the misconception that good moms don’t take breaks. Regular breaks will prevent you from reaching your breaking point. Caring for your own needs ensures you’re in the best shape to care for your children. So, replenish yourself, Mom. It’s not only for your well-being, but also for the benefit of your kids. You’ll emerge as a more fulfilled and joyful mother.
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Summary
Motherhood is a complex journey filled with joy and challenges. It’s vital for mothers to recognize the need for self-care and to take breaks in order to recharge. Embracing moments away from the demands of motherhood will ultimately lead to a more joyful and present parenting experience.
Keyphrase: Motherhood self-care
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