Overwhelmed? You're Not Alone!

Ever feel like you’re running a never-ending marathon? But instead of a finish line, there’s just another load of laundry, another work deadline, and another “Mommy, I need you” before you’ve even had a chance to breathe?

If you’re nodding along, welcome to the club. You are a full-time working mom juggling work, kids, a home, and a husband who also has a demanding job. It’s a LOT. And it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed.

First, Let’s Normalize the Overwhelm

Feeling stretched thin doesn’t mean you’re failing. It doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It means you’re human. You love your kids. You want to succeed in your career. You want to be present for your family. And somehow, you also want time to take care of yourself. This makes sense.

You’re not alone in this. And you’re not expected to do it all perfectly. So take a deep breath and let’s look at ways to lighten the load.

5 Ways to Manage the Overwhelm (Without Adding More to Your Plate)

1. Lower the Bar

We’re conditioned to believe we have to be amazing and good at EVERYTHING - work, parenting, home life, friendships, self-care. But guess what? No one is getting it right all at the same time. Give yourself permission to let some things be “good enough.” No one’s grading you on how perfectly folded your laundry is.

2. Create Small Moments of Pause

You don’t need an hour-long bubble bath to recharge. Sometimes, a two-minute deep-breathing session in the car before heading inside does the trick. Or a five-minute dance break with the kids. Little moments of pause can reset your energy.

3. Ask for Help Without Guilt

You’re not meant to carry the whole load alone. Can your partner handle dinner a couple of nights a week? Can your kids take on small, age-appropriate chores? Can you outsource something (re: grocery delivery, cleaning, etc.)? Delegating isn’t failing. It’s smart.

4. Set Boundaries Like a Boss

Not every email needs an immediate response. Not every school volunteer opportunity requires a “yes.” Protect your time and energy like they’re your most valuable assets because they are.

5. Talk to Yourself Like You Would a Friend

Would you ever tell your best friend, “You’re terrible at this” or “You should be doing more”? Of course not! So why do we talk to ourselves that way? Give yourself the same kindness and grace you’d give someone you love.

You’ve Got This

Overwhelm comes in waves. Some days feel heavier than others. But remember you're not alone in this, and you don’t have to do it all. You’re already an incredible mom, and your family is lucky to have you.

Now go take that deep breath. You deserve it.