I’m worn out. Not just physically, but mentally drained. Every single day feels like I’m carrying an additional burden on my shoulders, and it’s a struggle just to stay upright. As a single mom, my greatest desire is to find someone to help share that load, or at the very least, to set it down for a moment. Unfortunately, that’s not an option I have.
Single mothers are expected to handle everything, all the time. There’s no reprieve, no opportunity to relax. We are our own support system and the sole source of stability for our children. Friends often say, “I don’t know how you manage it all,” and while I appreciate their concern, the reality is that if I don’t take care of things, no one else will. This encompasses everything from mundane tasks like grocery shopping and preparing meals to the more significant responsibilities of paying bills and maintaining a roof over our heads.
Since my child was born, I’ve had to adapt my work life to accommodate flexible hours, as childcare was simply not within my means. Now, I freelance as a writer, which adds a layer of hustle to my already packed schedule. For a time, I was working nearly every day of the week while my son was not yet in preschool. Although I’m fortunate to work from home, it can be challenging to focus while my son treats me like a jungle gym or when I have to pause my work to take him to the park so he can expend some of his boundless energy.
Being a single parent and a full-time freelancer also means that financial stress is a constant companion. I have one reliable source of income, but I still have to juggle multiple jobs to fill the gaps. When payments arrive late, it turns into a scramble to determine which bills can be paid first. Rent, utilities, and internet often take priority—especially since I need the internet to work.
Managing smaller bills is typically less daunting, especially since I qualify for SNAP benefits, which alleviates some financial pressure when it comes to groceries. My son, now four years old and full of energy, requires constant nourishment, which adds to the challenge.
People often ask why my son’s father doesn’t contribute more. He works just as much as I do, but when he can, he takes our son to the park or to school a few times a week. However, when my son is with his dad, I’m not enjoying a moment of peace; I’m often racing against the clock to finish grocery shopping or meet work deadlines.
Some might argue that having his father involved means I’m not really a single mom, but with him only having our son for a few hours weekly, I bear nearly all the childcare responsibilities and financial burdens. To those who say otherwise, I firmly assert that I am indeed a single mom.
“You’re so strong,” they say. But I’m tired of being labeled as strong. This strength is not a choice; it’s a necessity to keep my world from crumbling. I long for a partner who recognizes my struggles and encourages me to take a break—just a few hours to myself. I wish I could shower without worrying about my child wreaking havoc in the house or enjoy a spontaneous outing instead of constantly telling him, “Mommy’s working, go play by yourself.”
I yearn for someone to comfort me during my tears instead of relying on distant friends for support. I’m fatigued from maintaining a facade of happiness, hiding how much I’m truly struggling. When people ask how I’m doing, I often wish I could share the truth, but I don’t want to burden them with my worries. I already carry enough emotional weight.
I’m exhausted from being too worn out to date, and I’m weary of having to fulfill every role—both for myself and my child. I resent the implication that I’m strong as if I have any other option. Weakness is not an option, because if it were, everything I’ve worked for would unravel.
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In summary, being a single mom is a demanding journey filled with emotional and physical challenges. The constant juggling act of work, childcare, and financial obligations often leaves little room for self-care or rest. While society may label us as ‘strong,’ the truth is that many of us desire support and a break from the relentless pressures of parenting alone.