How to Beat Mom Burnout

Oh, we have a terrible problem, I thought.

It’s an insidious thing. It’s so subtle that we don’t notice it until our mental health is suffering.

But it’s there.

I first noticed it when I asked a fellow mom, "what you’re biggest challenge to becoming more healthy, happy, and impactful?

What she said brought me to tears.

"Balancing being a full time working mom and dealing with the stress of my job and finding time to do "everything" and be everything for my family."

I got emotional because I too feel this. This trying to be everything to everyone.

So, I asked my mom friends how they combat this feeling. I sought out full-time working, part-time working, and stay at home moms with little ones. I got some incredible advice, BUT they were almost ALL followed up with some version of "but I'm really struggling too."

How can so many amazing moms be feeling this way?!

It's time to address it. And gosh, I wish there was a magic answer for us. The truth is, I don't see one. It’s not possible to take everything off of our plates. What I can offer is the experience and advice from moms just like you.

Here are the 3 KEY actions that not only help me, but other moms too...

1. Schedule Self-Care & Friend Time - Like RIGHT NOW. Schedule it in today, then next week, then every week for the next month if you need to. Journal, walk, grab dinner with your girls....do something that makes you feel good and helps you remember who you are outside of work and being mom.

Often, I find that the only time I have for myself is the early morning, so don't be afraid to wake up earlier and treat yourself in a healthy way.

2. Lean on Others - This is REALLY hard for many of us! But here's the deal, we shouldn't HAVE to be everything for everyone.

Make a list of everyone that could help you if you asked or paid. Could you put your husband in charge of a kid activity or other childcare responsibility? Do you have family close? Where could you find a babysitter or a house cleaner to help when needed? Are your kids old enough to do more? Can you utilize the grocery pick up or Amazon more often?

Now, take your list and DELEGATE, MAMA.

3. Say No - We may not be able to take it all off our shoulders, but we can do better.

It's ok to say NO. No to the work party, the child extracurricular, or anything else. The more you say "no" to the stuff that doesn't add value, the easier it will be to say "yes" to the stuff that matters. And frankly, the more sanity you'll have in the end.

For more tips on beating mom burnout read: How to be a Happy Mom

In Conclusion

I am tired of living with the feeling of overwhelm, and watching my mom friends do the same. It’s time to shift perspective and put ourselves first.

Love on yourself. Let go of some work, and just say no. We’ll be happier moms and create happier kids in the process. Nothing is better than that.

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.