Hey there, Amazing Moms! This summer, after spending a decade as a stay-at-home parent, I took the plunge into part-time work. It’s remote, but I’m keeping a schedule and checking off tasks like a boss. Let me tell you, the sense of accomplishment is exhilarating. I never imagined that focusing on something outside of my kids for a few hours a day could feel so liberating. And yes, it also helps that I’m bringing in some cash!
But, of course, guilt has become my unwelcome companion. Am I a good mom? Am I devoting enough quality time to my kids? Are we missing out on making fun summer memories together? Do they think I’m abandoning them? Seriously, what is wrong with me? Why do I constantly question my parenting skills?
Here’s a snippet of my frustrating inner monologue: “Come on! The kids are doing just fine, and you’re still spending a good chunk of your day with them. Remember how you felt guilty when you were a full-time stay-at-home mom too? You worried about not utilizing your degree and not contributing enough financially. But maybe, just maybe, you were meant to put those aspirations on hold and focus on being a mom for a bit. Perhaps your kids still need you around as much as you think…”
I could spiral into this self-critique forever, but I know I’m not alone in this struggle.
Why Are We So Hard on Ourselves?
We brought tiny humans into this world—whether through birth or adoption—and we work tirelessly to nurture them every single day. We whip up meals, clean up messes, and rescue our kids from meltdowns. We remember their eating schedules and even keep tabs on their bathroom habits (yes, we know what their last poop looked like).
It’s like we have this sixth sense that alerts us to when our children are feeling down, even from rooms away. And don’t even get me started on that mom radar we have for school nurse calls—you know it’s happening the moment the phone rings at 9 a.m.
Despite all the mental gymnastics we go through, the love and dedication we pour into our kids is unmatched. And yet, we still find ourselves doubting if we’re doing a good job. Enough already.
Let’s Give Ourselves a Break!
We deserve a round of applause for being there every day, doing our freakin’ best. Where does this negative self-talk come from? Is it social media pressures or the expectations ingrained in us since childhood? Who knows, but I’m done with it!
Here’s the truth: You are doing great. Seriously. Just the fact that you’re questioning your skills as a mom shows that you care deeply. Your kids feel your love and effort, even when you’re at work or taking a moment for yourself.
So, let’s own our awesomeness as moms. Ignore those negative voices in your head and the naysayers both online and offline. You’ve got this! Practice positive self-talk, even if it feels cheesy. You’re not just a mom; you’re a powerful force. Your kids need to see you embrace your worth, both as a mother and a woman.
Yes, there will be moments of self-doubt. We all have them. But remember, it’s our fierce love that fuels us and pushes us through the tough days. That love is what makes us successful, even when we feel like we’re floundering.
Let’s Lift Each Other Up!
I promise to silence the annoying voices in my head if you do the same. Deal?
And speaking of empowerment, if you’re curious about home insemination options, check out this insightful post on intracervical insemination. Plus, for a reliable resource, you can visit CDC’s page on assisted reproductive technology for more information. If you’re considering self-insemination, Cryobaby offers great kits to help you on that journey.
In summary, moms, remember to appreciate the amazing job you’re doing. You’re more capable than you realize, and your love truly makes a difference.