Motherhood is undoubtedly one of the most challenging and rewarding roles a woman can take on. From the moment we become mothers, our lives change dramatically. Our world becomes centered around our little ones, and we often find ourselves consumed by their needs, wants, and desires.
While motherhood can bring us an immeasurable amount of joy and fulfillment, it can also leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and burnt out.
Mom burnout is a real and common phenomenon that many mothers experience. It’s a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that often results from the never-ending demands of motherhood.
The constant juggling of responsibilities, lack of sleep, and limited time for self-care can take a toll on even the most resilient of mothers. I’d like to share my own experiences with mom burnout and offer some tips and ideas for other moms who may be struggling with it.
As a homeschooling mother of three children, I know firsthand what it’s like to feel completely burnt out. There have been days when I’ve woken up feeling like I’ve already run a marathon, and it’s not even noon yet.
The endless cycle of meals, laundry, school work, and managing meltdowns can leave me feeling depleted and unmotivated. But I’ve learned that I’m not alone in feeling this way, and that there are ways to combat mom burnout.
Self Care
One of the most important things I’ve learned is the importance of self-care. As mothers, we often put ourselves last on the list of priorities.
But taking care of ourselves is essential if we want to be able to care for our children. Whether it’s taking a long epsom salt bath, reading a book, or going for a walk, finding time to do something that brings us joy and relaxation is crucial for our mental health.
Realistic Expectations
Another strategy that has helped me combat mom burnout is setting realistic expectations for myself. As mothers, we often feel like we need to do it all and be perfect at everything.
But the truth is, no one can do it all, and it’s okay to ask for help when we need it. Learning to prioritize and let go of perfectionism has helped me feel less overwhelmed and more in control.
Create Support
I’ve also found it helpful to create a support network of other moms who understand what I’m going through. Sometimes I just need to call a mom friend and have a moment to vent or chat with and that can remind me that I am not alone in this journey.
Whether it’s joining a mom’s group, reaching out to friends who are also moms, or simply talking to other moms at the park, having a community of support can make a world of difference.
Take A Break
Finally, I’ve learned that it’s okay to take a break. Sometimes, we just need a few hours or a day to ourselves to recharge and reset. Asking a partner, family member, or trusted friend to watch the kids for a little while can give us the time and space we need to feel refreshed and energized.
Strength through God’s Word
As a Christian mom, I’ve found comfort and strength in reading the Bible and meditating on God’s word. There are many verses in the Bible that remind us of God’s love and care for us, even in the midst of our struggles. One of my favorite verses is from Psalm 46:1, which says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Knowing that God is always with us and will never leave us or forsake us is a source of comfort and hope.
Remember Your Not Alone
Mom burnout is a real and common experience for many mothers. But it’s important to remember that we are not alone and that there are ways to combat it. As mothers, we have one of the most important jobs in the world, but we also deserve to take care of ourselves along the way.
