Overcoming Mom Guilt
We have all heard the words MOM GUILT. This is a tough one for most moms. We spend a portion of our lives living for our children, making sure they are well taken care of and have more than they need. This leads to feelings of inadequacy and we often are left thinking we should be doing more. What exactly is mom guilt?
Mom guilt is a prevalent psychological and emotional phenomenon experienced by many mothers. It emerges from the internal pressure to fulfill unattainable standards of parenting, often resulting in feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and worry. This pervasive guilt can manifest in various aspects of motherhood, including discipline, work-life balance, self-care, and societal expectations. While challenging to overcome, acknowledging and addressing mom guilt through self-compassion, realistic goal-setting, and seeking support can help mothers navigate this emotional burden and strive for a more balanced and fulfilling parenting experience.
Usually we do this to ourselves, and it’s mostly anxiety. The stresses of having to be the best mom. Of course we all want to be the best for our children, but what defines the best mom? This is subjective, and we all have different parenting styles. And that is ok. Some parents want to make sure they give their children everything they want, while others feel they should teach their children to work for the things they want. Neither of these is wrong, just different. Some parents allow their children to sleep in the bed with them, while others are strict about sleeping in their own beds. These are both normal parenting ideas. We have to find what is right for us, and learn to tune out the other stuff.
To overcome mom guilt, it's important to practice self-compassion and remember that you're doing your best in a challenging role. Recognize that no one is perfect, and making mistakes is a natural part of parenting. Communicate openly with your support system about your feelings, as sharing your struggles can provide perspective and empathy. Setting realistic expectations for yourself and prioritizing self-care are crucial in managing mom guilt. Remember that taking care of your well-being enables you to be a better parent. Lastly, seek professional help if feelings of guilt become overwhelming or persistent.