Rediscover Your Balance: Tips for Overwhelmed Working Mums

by Fulden Tubb
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Rediscover Your Balance: Tips for Overwhelmed Working Mums

Balancing work, motherhood, and personal time can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. You might find yourself overwhelmed, stressed, and perpetually guilty for not doing or being enough. If this sounds all too familiar, you're not alone.

Are You Constantly Feeling Overwhelmed?

The never-ending to-do list can feel like a dark cloud hanging over your head. From work deadlines to school runs, meal planning, and household chores, it’s easy to feel buried under the weight of it all. This relentless pressure can leave you feeling like there’s no room to breathe, let alone enjoy life.

Do You Feel Guilty for Not Being Perfect?

Mum guilt is real and relentless. Whether it's missing a school event due to a work meeting or not having the time (or energy) to cook a homemade dinner every night, the guilt can be crippling. You may feel like you're failing at work, motherhood, or both, and constantly question whether you’re doing enough for your family.

Are You Struggling to Find Personal Time?

Finding time for yourself can seem like an impossible dream. Between your responsibilities at work and home, carving out even a few minutes for self-care feels like a luxury you can’t afford. This lack of personal time can lead to burnout, making it even harder to manage your daily tasks and maintain your mental wellbeing.

Are You Feeling Disconnected and Isolated?

Being a working mum can sometimes feel isolating. It’s easy to lose touch with friends and feel disconnected from your support network. You might find yourself longing for adult conversation and camaraderie, but struggle to find the time or energy to reach out and connect.

If this sounds all too familiar, you're not alone. Many working mums experience these feelings, but there are ways to manage them and find a bit of sanity amidst the chaos. I would love to help you with my lived experience through this crazy busy period, but here are a few tips you could try yourself.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognise and accept your emotions. Feeling overwhelmed or guilty doesn’t make you a bad mum. It simply means you’re human. Instead of brushing these feelings aside, acknowledge them. Sometimes, just naming what you’re experiencing can take away some of its power.

Set Realistic Expectations

As mums, we often set impossibly high standards for ourselves. It’s time to adjust those expectations. Prioritise tasks and let go of the idea that everything needs to be perfect. Ask yourself what truly matters. Does it really matter if the laundry isn’t folded the same day it’s washed? Probably not. Focus on what’s most important and let the rest slide.

Delegate and Ask for Help

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Involve your partner, kids, or extended family in household chores. Even young children can help with simple tasks, and it teaches them responsibility. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends or consider hiring help if that’s within your means. Remember, delegating isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a smart way to manage your time and energy.

Make Time for Yourself

This one might seem impossible, but carving out even a few minutes a day for yourself can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a quick walk, or a few minutes of reading, find something that recharges you. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re taking the time to refill yours.

Practise Mindfulness

Mindfulness can be a game-changer in managing stress. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Simple breathing exercises, a bit of meditation, or just paying attention to the present moment can help ground you. When you find yourself spiralling, take a few deep breaths and bring your focus back to the here and now. I really like the 54321 exercise for grounding. You will find many videos on it on YouTube.

Connect with Other Mums

There’s immense power in knowing you’re not alone. Connect with other mums, who are in the same boat. Sharing experiences, frustrations, and successes can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. You might even pick up some helpful tips and tricks from others who’ve been there and done that.

Join a Coaching Session

If you’re finding it hard to manage everything on your own, consider joining one of my group or 1:1 coaching sessions. As a mental health nurse and life coach, I specialise in helping mums like you navigate the challenges of balancing work, motherhood, and personal time. Also, you might want to know that I have gone through it myself, and now have a lot more time to myself that I treasure! My sessions are designed to provide you with practical strategies and emotional support, tailored to your unique situation.