10 More Things Moms Should Stop Feeling Guilty About

A while back, I found myself in a less-than-flattering state—messy bun, yoga pants that might as well have been a permanent fixture, and a shirt that looked like I had just survived a toddler food fight. When my partner walked through the door, I usually would have muttered apologies about my appearance or the chaos surrounding me. But not this time. I was fed up! After a long day of toddler meltdowns and sleepless nights, I decided to embrace my reality instead of apologizing for it.

I took a stand and wrote down my thoughts, sending them off to a parenting blog, and before I knew it, I was being hailed a champion for moms everywhere! Sure, I faced some backlash, but I felt liberated for finally saying what so many of us think. Since then, I’ve realized that there are plenty more things moms don’t need to apologize for. So, without further ado, here are 10 more things we should stop feeling guilty about.

1. Resting Mom Face

You’ve heard of “resting bitch face,” but let’s talk about “resting mom face.” It’s that look you get when you’re on the brink of counting to three, and the kids are still defying gravity. Honestly, I wear my resting mom face like a badge of honor. I’ve got toddlers, and they’re not total monsters, so I’m not apologizing for my stern look.

2. Chicken Nuggets and Mac and Cheese

Like many parents, I began my parenting journey with grand aspirations for my kids’ diets. But let’s be real—sometimes it’s just chicken nuggets and mac and cheese for dinner. As long as they’re the “organic” kind, I think that counts as a win, right? If you’re vegan and stressed by this, maybe munch on some beef-flavored tofu and relax a little. They’ll be just fine.

3. Hiding in the Bathroom

When my kids are wreaking havoc, I occasionally retreat to the bathroom for a much-needed break. Call it self-care—while I’m in there, I might indulge in some magazine browsing and inhale that lavender soap, pretending I’m at a spa. It’s either that or I turn into a Hulk-like version of myself, so don’t judge.

4. Taking Anxiety Medication

If I could, I’d name my next child after my anxiety meds! Growing up in a household where mental health wasn’t taken seriously, I always thought “just get outside more” was the answer. But after experiencing postpartum challenges, I sought help. Now, being on medication has been a game-changer. So if you have a problem with mental health discussions, I suggest you take a backseat!

5. Screen Time

There are warnings everywhere about kids turning into screen-obsessed zombies from too much screen time. Yet, I let my kids binge-watch shows while I tackle my to-do list. When my toddler recognized a hexagon on a stop sign, I was grateful for the Disney Channel’s educational contributions. So, don’t sweat it—screen time can actually be part of their learning!

6. Working

I work because I need to and because I want to. If you think working moms are neglecting their kids, think again! Every mom is working hard, whether she’s at home or outside of it. So if you have something to say about it, well, you can keep that to yourself.

7. Yelling

No one enjoys yelling, but sometimes it’s necessary—especially when your kid decides that public restrooms are the perfect place for a wardrobe malfunction or a bathroom emergency. I’m not trying to be a dictator, but I’d rather not have a poop incident at a fancy café!

8. Having Opinions

Just because I’m a mom doesn’t mean my opinions don’t matter. I love sports and have strong feelings about them, just like anyone else. If you think a woman’s voice is less relevant just because we don’t fit into a certain stereotype, that’s on you. We deserve to express our views just as much as anyone else.

9. Being Assertive

Why is it that when a woman speaks her mind, she’s labeled aggressive? Meanwhile, assertive men are celebrated as leaders. This needs to change! We should be lifting each other up and calling women “bosses” instead of using derogatory terms.

10. Not Caring About Society’s Expectations

Listen up: it’s 2023. The days of women existing solely to serve others are over. We can live life on our terms, and if that means not conforming to societal norms, then so be it! If you don’t like my tattoos or my cursing, that’s your problem, not mine. I’m living authentically, and I refuse to apologize for it.

Ladies, we’ve got every right to take up space in this world. We’re here, and we don’t owe anyone an apology for being ourselves.

For more insights on navigating motherhood and self-empowerment, check out this post about home insemination kits or learn more about the science behind it at Make A Mom. If you’re curious about fertility and pregnancy, the CDC offers excellent resources.

Summary: Moms should embrace their realities and stop feeling guilty about common parenting practices like screen time, their appearances, and mental health. Being assertive, working, and holding opinions should also be celebrated. Let’s take up space unapologetically!