Hey there, moms! After a decade of being a stay-at-home mom, I recently took the plunge into part-time work from home. It’s been a refreshing change to focus on something outside of parenting for a few hours each day. The feeling of accomplishing tasks and bringing in some income is liberating, to say the least. But, of course, guilt has its way of creeping in. I can’t help but wonder if I’m still a good mom, if I’m spending enough quality time with my kids, and if the summer will slip by without us making enough memories together. Am I abandoning them?
Honestly, why do we put ourselves through this mental gymnastics? Here’s a glimpse of my incessant inner monologue: “Stop it! The kids are okay, you’re doing just fine, and you’re still spending a significant amount of time with them. Remember when you were a full-time SAHM? You felt guilty for not using your graduate degree, and you worried about contributing financially. But maybe it’s alright to chase your aspirations while still being a great mom. Maybe…”
This cycle of self-critique seems endless. And I know I’m not alone in this struggle. So, why are we so hard on ourselves? After all, we moms have nurtured entire lives, whether by carrying them ourselves or guiding them through the world. Every day, we work tirelessly for our children: preparing countless meals, wiping down surfaces, and tending to emotional meltdowns.
We remember every little detail about our kids—when they last ate, how much they consumed, and when their next hunger pang will strike. We’re attuned to their feelings, sensing when they’re upset before they even utter a word. Some of us even possess a kind of sixth sense that alerts us when the school nurse is about to call about a tummy ache.
These thoughts, often filled with mundane yet crucial details, occupy our minds even when we’re not physically with our kids. We worry, we hope, we always want the best for them. Yet, amidst this overwhelming love and dedication, we still question our abilities as mothers.
So, let’s cut ourselves some slack, shall we? We deserve recognition for showing up every single day and doing our best.
Where Does This Negative Self-Talk Stem From?
Is it the pressure of social media, where we constantly compare ourselves to others? Or is it a deeply ingrained belief that no matter what we do, it will never be enough? Honestly, I’m tired of it.
Hear me out, moms: You are doing an incredible job. If you’re questioning your worth as a mother, that alone indicates your dedication. The fact that you care and try means you’re already on the right path. Your kids know your love is there, whether you’re at work or in another room.
Embrace your role as a remarkable mom and recognize your worth. Dismiss the negativity from your inner critic and anyone else who makes you feel less than. Practice positive self-affirmation, even if it feels a bit cheesy. Your children need to see you as a confident mother who knows her value, both as a parent and as an individual.
I understand it’s not always easy. There will be moments of self-doubt and overwhelming pressure. But remember, we rise above that because our love for our kids fuels us. That love is what drives our success, even when we feel like we’re faltering.
So let’s commit to silencing those annoying inner voices. I promise to tell mine to take a hike if you do the same. Deal?
Resources for Moms
For more insights on navigating motherhood, check out this thought-provoking post on Cervical Insemination. And if you’re curious about at-home insemination options, make sure to visit Make a Mom for reliable kits. Additionally, Progyny is a fantastic resource for everything pregnancy-related, including home insemination.
In summary, moms, give yourselves some credit. You’re doing a better job than you realize, and your kids feel your love and support. Let’s embrace our role with pride and silence the negativity for good.
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