Mom Burnout is Real—Here’s How to Sidestep It

In order to show up as the best Mom, you have to take care of yourself, too.

Whether you're a mom of one or multiples, you know the constant juggle that leaves very limited time to yourself. I often reflect back on before I had a child and I need to know how I filled my days? How did I ever feel like I couldn't fit something into my schedule? What exactly was my schedule? Yes, I worked a 9-5 Monday- Friday but I definitely had a lot of time I was not capitalizing on. Once you become a mom you realize how truly precious time is. With the lack of time for yourself, burn out can feel inevitable as a mother. Let's talk about some ways we can curb that in order for you to show up as your best version!

1. Rhythm Instead of Routine

   You are the best judge of what is best for your children. If you had planned a trip to the park but someone is throwing a tantrum and staying home seems better for your mental health? Get to the playroom and settle in! If you were planning to do laundry in the afternoon but someone is looking for extra snuggles that day, put it to the back seat! Sometimes illness takes over, extracurricular activities, birthday parties etc., and a strict routine can't always be abide by. Have a rough game plan of your days and pivot as needed to create the most stress free day you can. We can't always control what happens in life but, we can control how react, so instead of panicking do your best sashay (sideways sliding step) and tackle the next to do on your list!

   
   

2. Utilize "Micro-Breaks" to Reset

   Listen I hear you, a quick 5 minute break isn't going to reset you after four hours of overstimulation. However, it does give you time to do something for yourself such as a quick stretch or breathing exercise. Even taking these a few times a day will potentially help you from reaching your breaking point. Sometimes in our busy days when I finally relax I can't remember the last time I took a deep breath or brought my shoulders down. I like to take these 5 minutes when I can whether it be while they independently play or watch a show ( we don't screen time shame here) and check in with myself. Sometimes I need the reminder to unclench my jaw and just RELAX. On the difficult days it truly can feel like your body is in fight or flight so it is SO important to get those deep breaths in! A little reset can go a long way.

   
   

3. Prioritize Moving your Body with Purpose

   I may be the top offender of not prioritizing this one! When I went to my gynecology appointment they said, "And for exercise you mentioned you chase around your toddler, is that still true?", I actually laughed out loud that this sweet nurse read this back from my last visit. To me, chasing him was truly the only energy I had ( plus I was severely anemic at the time but that's a story for another time) so, that was my workout. However, I started placing him in his push car or stroller and starting our mornings off with a morning walks. It truly creates such a mental shift for the day. I usually have to do the mornings because that is when he is more likely to be complacent. However, it does also set the precedent for the day too! As exhausted as I feel from just our everyday tasks, even moving my body purposefully for a half hour makes such a difference for my mood.

   
   

4. Have a Mom Friend Check In

   Mom friends are such a vital part of your village! No one gets you the way another mom can. It is no offense to any other friends, they are amazing too but, to have someone understand the nuances of your everyday on a personal level hits different. If my son is having a bad day I usually text my mom friend and I am met with a story of solidarity of the pains she is going through too. You also don't have to worry about judgement with these friends because, they know what it is like to be in the trenches. It can be so validating to hear it is not just you in a tough season and it makes the isolation fade away. Mom friends can also give tips about what has worked for their kiddos and sometimes it can be the fix for you too! Whether its sharing the happy milestone or a mental breakdown after a hard time, mom friends will hold your hand through it.

   
   

5. Incorporate a Creative Outlet

   It is so important you find something that lights your spark! I mean this outside of motherhood and even a career. It is important to have something that fills your cup and also lets your creativity flow. Whether it be painting, journaling, or reading a book, it is important to feel "more than just a mom." You're a kick ass mom but maybe you are also a really talented artiste? Or you can bake better than the bakery in town! Whatever niche you find, may it help you find happiness and purpose in ALL that you are.

We all find ourselves burnt out or near burn out in motherhood unfortunately, we tend to put our needs last. My goal is to always try to use these tools in my tool box before I reach my burnt out point. Hopefully, these few tips will get you started on prioritizing your mental health too!