Hello, Mama. How are you holding up? I mean genuinely holding up. You say you’re okay, but it’s clear you’re not. That’s alright; I’m not okay either.
The reality is, I don’t know a single mom who feels “okay.” In fact, we might as well banish the word “fine” from our conversations. Most days, we’re navigating a complex landscape of emotions—riding high on joy while also grappling with frustration, feeling love surge through us while battling overwhelming fatigue.
These emotional swings can drain you. Yes, even the joyful moments can drain your energy. This constant oscillation can be taxing on both your mind and spirit. One insightful writer, Linda Carter, describes it as being “soul-weary.” Motherhood can indeed leave you soul-weary, particularly if you’re not prioritizing self-care.
I understand that self-care often feels like just another item on your already overflowing to-do list. How can you possibly focus on yourself when there are little ones depending on you? It can feel like there’s nothing left to give to yourself.
Hear me out, Mama. I’ve walked this path. I’ve sobbed alongside my crying infant, feeling utterly sleepless and powerless. I’ve gazed out at the chaos of my living room—filled with toys and clutter—wondering how this whirlwind became my reality. I’ve felt the fraying of my nerves, questioning if I might actually reach a breaking point. I’ve even had moments where I just wanted to walk out the front door and keep walking.
What I’ve discovered through my years of parenting is that this urge to escape shouldn’t be suppressed; it should be embraced. Listen closely: motherhood is a blend of beauty and chaos. But when you’re only experiencing the chaos and not the beauty, it’s crucial to take a step back. In fact, it’s overdue. It’s perfectly normal to feel drained because that’s precisely what you are.
“But I love my children!” you might be thinking, likely laden with guilt. Here’s the truth: love is boundless, but energy is limited. Your love is the engine, but without fuel, you can’t move forward. You might find yourself stuck, knowing you need to go, but feeling completely unable. Refueling is essential, and it’s best done before hitting empty.
You might not want to hear this, but refueling as a mom often means stepping away from your kids. Sorry, but it’s true. You can’t fill up your gas tank while driving. You might think being “on” for your kids all the time is beneficial, but in reality, you’re not doing them any favors by running on fumes.
Trust that your children need you to take this time for yourself. They need a mom who isn’t running on empty, who has both love and energy to give. They need a mom who has had enough time to herself that she can truly enjoy being present.
I know this concept may feel daunting, but here’s the silver lining: it doesn’t require a lot of time. Just as a quick fill-up at the gas station can keep you going for miles, a brief respite from motherhood can significantly rejuvenate you. You don’t need a whole weekend or even an entire day—just an hour or two spent consciously filling your tank can work wonders. Head to a coffee shop, a bookstore, or wherever you feel most like yourself. Bring a book, your phone, or a friend—whatever you need to recharge. Maybe all you need is a short nap.
If you don’t have someone to watch your kids for a couple of hours occasionally, consider joining a local mom group. If the first one you join doesn’t feel right, keep searching. They’re out there, waiting for you. Check with local churches, community centers, or simply search online for “mom groups” in your area. Connecting with just one other mom for a kid-swap can change everything.
Whatever you do, don’t accept that feeling overwhelmed is what motherhood is supposed to be. Yes, it can be exhausting, and there are tough moments. Those are universal truths. But if you feel like you’re teetering on the edge of a cliff, that’s a clear sign to take a step back and give yourself some space. It may be challenging, but you’ll be surprised at how much a little time for yourself can shift your entire perspective on motherhood.
The biggest barrier to overcome is letting go of the belief that good mothers don’t need breaks. Regular breaks are essential to avoid burnout. Good moms prioritize their own well-being because it allows them to be more present and joyful with their children. So refuel, Mama, not just for your own sake but for your kids’ as well. It will undoubtedly make you a happier, more fulfilled mother.
For more insights on home insemination and parenting, check out this resource or explore expert advice on pregnancy. If you’re interested in tools for home insemination, visit here.
Summary
Motherhood is a whirlwind of emotions, often leaving moms feeling drained. It’s essential to prioritize self-care and take breaks to refuel your energy. Stepping away from your children for short periods can significantly improve your well-being and enhance your ability to be present and engaged as a mother.