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To the Mom on the Edge of Breaking
Hey there, Mama. How are you holding up? I mean really? You might say you’re fine, but I can see through that. It’s totally okay; I’m not “fine” either. In fact, I don’t know any moms who genuinely are. Let’s retire the word “fine” from our day-to-day chatter. Most of us are caught somewhere between extreme highs and crushing lows. Motherhood is an emotional rollercoaster—joy that lights you up one moment and sheer frustration that has you pulling your hair out the next. It’s love so deep it can sweep you off your feet, paired with exhaustion that can leave you feeling like a zombie.
These emotional swings can take a toll. Even the joyful moments can be draining. The constant ebb and flow can leave you feeling “soul-tired,” a term coined by one of my favorite authors, Janice. Motherhood often means neglecting your own needs, and I know what you’re thinking: “How can I possibly take care of myself when I have little ones depending on me?” You feel completely depleted, as if there’s nothing left for you.
Listen closely, Mama. I’ve been in your shoes. I’ve spent sleepless nights with my baby crying in one hand and my sanity on the other. I’ve gazed out at the chaos of toys and wondered how I got here. I’ve felt my nerves unraveling and seriously considered just walking out the door. But here’s what I’ve figured out over 15 years of parenting: that urge to escape? It deserves to be embraced rather than resisted. Hear me out.
Motherhood is a beautiful, magical, and sometimes downright awful journey. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the tough moments without any glimmers of magic, it’s time to take a break. In fact, it’s well overdue. You’re right to feel drained, because you are.
You might think, “But why should I take time away? I love my kids!” That’s the thing—love is limitless, but your energy is not. Think of love as your engine and energy as the fuel. Without fuel, that engine is going nowhere. You can feel stuck, knowing you should be moving, but utterly unable to do so. Refueling is essential, and it’s best done before you hit empty.
Now, you might not want to hear this, but refueling as a mom often means stepping away from your kids. I know, I know—this can feel like guilt city. But consider this: you can’t fill up your gas tank while you’re driving. You may believe that being “on” all the time is what your kids need, but in reality, they need a mom who has both love and energy to give. They need you to enjoy being present, not just going through the motions.
I get it; the thought of taking time for yourself might be stressing you out. But here’s the silver lining: it doesn’t have to be a grand affair. Just like topping off your gas tank takes only minutes, you don’t need a whole weekend away to recharge. An hour or two of dedicated “you” time can make a world of difference. Head to your favorite coffee shop, bookstore, spa, or gym—wherever you feel most like yourself. Bring along a book, your phone, or even a friend. Maybe you just need a nap. Take it.
If you don’t have someone to watch your kids every now and then, look for a moms’ group. If the first one you try isn’t your vibe, keep searching! They’re out there. Reach out to local churches, recreation centers, or even check the internet for “mom groups” in your area. Connecting with just one like-minded mom who can swap kid-watching duties with you can be a total game-changer.
Don’t let the way you feel trick you into believing that this is what motherhood is meant to be. Yes, sometimes it’s tough, and yes, it can be exhausting. Those are universal truths. But if you feel like you’re teetering on the edge of a cliff, it’s a clear sign to take a step back and give yourself some space. It may be difficult, but you’ll be amazed at how a little time to recharge can shift your entire perspective on motherhood.
The biggest obstacle is letting go of the belief that good moms don’t need breaks. Regular breaks are what keep you intact. A good mom ensures her own well-being because that’s what ultimately allows her to be the best version of herself for her kids. So go ahead, fuel up, Mama. It’s for your kids as much as it is for you. You’ll emerge a happier, more fulfilled mother—guaranteed.
For more support on your journey, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination, or dive into this guide for couples considering their fertility journey. If you have questions or need to talk, don’t hesitate to reach out through this contact page.
Summary
Motherhood is a blend of highs and lows that can leave you feeling drained. It’s crucial to take breaks and refuel, even if it means stepping away from your little ones for a short while. Prioritizing your own well-being enables you to be a more present and loving mom. Embrace the need for self-care to enhance your parenting journey.