Let’s face it: juggling everything isn’t possible.
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Maintaining Friendships
Friendships are crucial for our mental health, but as a working mom, finding time for social connections can become a challenge. You may notice your circle shrinking, forcing you to assess which relationships deserve your energy and which may need to be let go, especially if they feel toxic. Just because you can’t attend every gathering doesn’t mean you should neglect your close friends. Prioritize those relationships that feel supportive and uplifting. And remember, if someone constantly makes you feel inadequate, they don’t deserve your precious time. Pro tip: Focus on quality over quantity, radiate positivity, and let go of the pressure to be the “perfect friend.” You’re doing just fine, and anyone who thinks otherwise can take a hike. -
Regular Date Nights
You often hear that date nights are a must for keeping your marriage strong, and I was determined to uphold this tradition. But let’s be real—finding a trustworthy babysitter can be tough and pricey. With young kids at home, date nights have become as rare as finding a unicorn! I cherish my time with my partner, but I refuse to let my inner critic convince me that I’m failing my marriage just because we can’t schedule regular outings. We make an effort to sneak in a date night when we can, even if it means a quick outing before daycare pickup—highly recommended! -
Having Energy
Kids are relentless in their demands for playtime, and by the end of a full workday, I’m completely wiped out. Here’s a little secret: I make it a point to give each child 10 minutes of undivided attention every evening, and the rest of the night can be as chaotic as it needs to be. No need for self-judgment here! And on a lucky night, the kids might come home just as tired. -
Exercise
Let’s be honest—being fit isn’t a top priority for me right now. However, I do care about staying healthy. Although it might sound like an excuse to fitness enthusiasts, I simply can’t commit to a regular workout schedule. I might hit up a Barre class occasionally or take a leisurely jog, but I also appreciate cozy nights on the couch binge-watching my favorite shows. Good news: there are many ways to stay healthy without a strict routine, like taking short walks, stretching, meditating, or playing with the kids (double the fun!). Don’t stress about not looking like an Instagram fitness influencer; embrace where you are and give yourself some grace. -
Cooking
I may have tricked my spouse into thinking I was a culinary whiz, but the truth is—I don’t enjoy cooking! So, I’ve let go of the stereotype of the mom who always makes dinner. Instead, I prep meals twice a week and let my husband, Costco, and takeout handle the rest. The meals I do whip up are versatile and easy, like crockpot salsa chicken for tacos or burritos. The key is to find what works for you—cooking doesn’t define your worth! -
Resting
It’s important to rest when you’re feeling sick or overwhelmed, but let’s be honest—if you have young children, no one is going to make sure you get that much-needed downtime. You have to take the initiative to prioritize your own well-being. Despite knowing I should rest, I often struggle to find that space in my life. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine.
For more insights into navigating parenthood and relationships, check out our other posts, like this one. And if you’re curious about pregnancy resources, WebMD offers excellent information. Plus, if you’re looking for reliable tools for artificial insemination, Make a Mom is an authority on the topic.
In summary, as a working mom, it’s okay to not excel in every area. Focus on what works for you and embrace the chaos—you’re not alone in this journey.