A little while ago, I found myself in a chaotic situation—hair thrown up in a messy bun, comfy but stained yoga pants, and a shirt that bore the remnants of snacks and spills—from various sources. When my partner walked in, my instinct was to apologize for my appearance and the clutter surrounding us. But this time, something shifted within me. I was done with apologizing for the chaos of motherhood, and instead, I embraced it. I had reached my threshold with the relentless demands of parenting, and I decided that I wouldn’t apologize for what was simply a reality of life.
I penned my thoughts and shared them on my blog, and the response was overwhelming. While some readers criticized me, many others resonated with my sentiments, and it sparked a much-needed conversation. Since then, I’ve realized just how vital it is for moms to reclaim their narrative. So here are ten more things that mothers shouldn’t feel the need to apologize for.
1. Resting Mom Face
We’ve all heard about “resting bitch face,” but let’s talk about “resting mom face.” This is the expression that comes when you’re on the verge of losing it—eyebrows furrowed, lips pursed, and eyes that could convey a thousand warnings. It’s not a crime; it’s just a reflection of the daily grind. Embrace it—we’re not sorry.
2. Feeding Kids Chicken Nuggets and Mac and Cheese
Like many parents, I started my journey intending to provide nutritious meals. But as it turns out, my kids have developed a strong preference for chicken nuggets and mac and cheese. I may opt for the organic version, so does that make it all okay? If you’re worried about nutrition, consider checking out this fertility booster for men and relax. Kids are resilient.
3. Sneaking Away to the Bathroom
When the chaos of parenting becomes overwhelming, sometimes you just need a moment of peace. Hiding in the bathroom while the kids wreak havoc can feel like your only escape. This is not an act of neglect; it’s self-care. I might scroll through my phone or take a few deep breaths, and guess what? It helps more than you’d think.
4. Using Anxiety Medication
Mental health should not be stigmatized. I grew up in an environment where mental illness was dismissed, but seeking help has been crucial for my well-being. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Your mental health matters, and there’s no shame in taking medication if it improves your life.
5. Screen Time
There’s a lot of chatter about screen time potentially turning kids into mindless zombies. But I’ve found that my kids can learn and engage in ways I never expected. A little Disney here and there can be a valuable tool for education. If you’re looking for more on this topic, this article offers insightful resources.
6. Having a Job
Whether by necessity or choice, working outside the home doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your children. Moms juggle multiple roles, and working is just one of them. So, if you’re criticized for your career choices, remember that you’re contributing to your family in meaningful ways.
7. Yelling in Desperation
While yelling isn’t ideal, sometimes it’s necessary. When kids are about to do something dangerous or embarrassing, raising your voice is a natural reaction. You’re not a bad parent; you’re just trying to keep them safe.
8. Expressing Opinions
Women’s voices are often dismissed in discussions, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t share our thoughts. Whether it’s about politics or sports, our opinions are valid and should be respected. We shouldn’t have to apologize for speaking our minds.
9. Being Assertive
Women are often criticized for being assertive, while men are praised for the same behavior. It’s time to change that narrative. We should be recognized as leaders, not labeled negatively for being confident in our views.
10. Living Authentically
In today’s world, women are not defined solely by societal expectations. We should live our lives on our own terms—whether that means having tattoos, using strong language, or pursuing our passions. If others can’t handle it, that’s on them, not us.
Ladies, we have every right to take up space and be unapologetic about our choices. Our experiences are valid, and we should own them without fear or guilt. If you’re interested in more insights about family and parenting, check out this post.
In summary, motherhood is a complex journey filled with challenges and triumphs. We are not defined by our mistakes or societal pressures. By embracing our realities and supporting one another, we can foster a community of empowered women.