Hey there, Mama. How are you really doing? You might say you’re fine, but let’s be honest—I can see that you’re not. And that’s perfectly okay. I’m not fine either.
To be frank, I don’t know any mothers who genuinely feel “fine.” In fact, I think we should eliminate that word from our conversations. Most days, motherhood presents us with a spectrum of experiences—extreme highs and gut-wrenching lows. There are moments filled with profound joy, juxtaposed with waves of frustration. There’s love that can feel all-consuming, but also an exhaustion that can be overwhelming.
These emotional extremes can take a toll on us, even the joyful moments. The constant balancing act can wear you out, leaving you feeling what one of my favorite authors, Emily Carter, calls “soul-tired.” That’s a real thing, especially when you neglect to care for yourself.
I get it. Prioritizing self-care can seem like just another task on your never-ending to-do list. How can you possibly find time for yourself when you’ve got little ones depending on you? It feels like you’ve run out of energy, and there’s nothing left to give.
Listen closely, Mama. I’ve walked in your shoes. I’ve experienced those nights where I cried alongside my baby, sleepless and feeling utterly powerless. I’ve gazed out at the chaos of my home, wondering how I ended up in this whirlwind of mess and noise. I’ve felt my patience wearing thin—physically felt it—and questioned if I might actually reach a breaking point. There have been times when I’ve wanted to escape, just to get away from it all.
What I’ve learned over my years of parenting is that the urge to step away shouldn’t be suppressed; it should be embraced. Motherhood is a beautiful, magical journey, but when you’re only feeling the weight of the challenges and none of the joy, it’s time to take a breather. In fact, it’s long overdue. It’s completely valid to feel drained because that’s precisely where you are.
You might be thinking, “But I love my kids!” and feeling a wave of guilt wash over you. Here’s the reality: Love is boundless. Energy, however, is finite. Think of love as your engine and energy as the fuel. Without fuel, love alone won’t move you forward. You might find yourself stalled, aware that you should be progressing but completely unable to do so. Refueling is essential, and ideally, it should happen before your tank hits empty.
I know this might be hard to accept, but taking time for yourself often means stepping away from your children. Yes, I said it. You can’t refill your gas tank while driving. You may believe that constantly being “on” is what your kids need, but the truth is, you’re not doing them any favors. You’re present, but not fully engaged.
Trust me when I say that your kids require a mom who has something left in her tank. They need a mother who can share both love and energy. They need you to recharge so that you can genuinely enjoy being present with them.
I understand this might feel overwhelming, but here’s the silver lining: it doesn’t have to be complicated. Just like filling your car’s gas tank takes only a few minutes, you don’t need a whole weekend away. Sometimes, just an hour or two of intentional time for yourself can make a world of difference. Whether it’s heading to a coffee shop, bookstore, or even a spa, find a space where you can reconnect with yourself. Bring along a book, your phone, or a journal—whatever fills your cup. Maybe you just need a nap; that’s okay too.
If you’re struggling to find someone to watch your kids for a brief period, consider joining a local moms group. If the first one isn’t a good fit, keep searching. They are abundant! Contact local churches, community centers, or even search online for “mom groups” in your area. Connecting with just one like-minded mom for a kid swap can be a game changer.
Whatever you do, don’t accept that this feeling is what motherhood is meant to be. Yes, there are tough days. Yes, it can be exhausting. Those are facts we all face. But if you feel like you’re teetering on the edge, that’s a clear signal to step back and take some time for yourself. It’s challenging, but you’ll be surprised how a little refueling can shift your entire perspective on motherhood.
The hardest part is letting go of the belief that good moms don’t need breaks. Regular time away will help you avoid breaking down. Good moms prioritize their own well-being to ensure they can be the best for their children. So go ahead, recharge for both your sake and theirs. You’ll emerge as a happier, more fulfilled mother, without a doubt.
For more insights on motherhood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re interested in fertility options, this link to an artificial insemination kit can provide valuable information. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and taking care of yourself is essential for everyone involved.
Summary:
Motherhood is a complex journey filled with emotional highs and lows, and it’s vital for moms to prioritize self-care. Taking breaks is necessary for replenishing energy and maintaining a healthy balance between love and responsibility. By embracing the need for time away, moms can recharge and return to their families with renewed energy and enthusiasm.