If you’re a mom, chances are that you’ve experienced at least some guilt over parenting decisions. Whether it’s the way you discipline your kids or the idea of taking time away from them to pursue goals and interests outside of motherhood, “Mom Guilt” has become so prevalent in our society that it can, unfortunately, feel like an unavoidable part of being a modern parent. 

At “The LYLAS Podcast,” we GET IT, but also recognize that there are proven tips and techniques for managing this guilty feeling without letting it negatively impact your life – not just as a parent but as an individual too. 

In today’s blog post, we’ll be sharing simple steps for managing “Mom Guilt” with both practical advice and words of encouragement. So if any part of you is carrying around unneeded weight from feeling guilty about something related to parenting then keep reading!

Understanding What “Mom Guilt” Really Is

Let’s talk about “Mom Guilt,” shall we? It’s that feeling of guilt or anxiety experienced by moms when they think they’re not doing enough for their children or being the perfect mom. It’s a real thing, and it can hit you like a ton of bricks. Whether it’s the guilt of not being able to make all of your child’s classes or activities, or just the feeling of “I should be doing more,” this feeling is relentless. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

Almost every mom experiences it at some point or another, and it doesn’t make you a bad mom. So next time you feel that Mom Guilt creeping in, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can.

Preparing Yourself for the Challenges of Being a Mom

Having a baby is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences you’ll ever face in life. As a new mom, you’ll have to juggle a lot of responsibilities, from feeding and changing your little one to taking care of household chores and finding time for yourself. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this! There are plenty of resources and support systems available to help you prepare for the challenges of motherhood. 

Try taking parenting classes or joining a mom’s group to learn from other moms’ experiences. It’s also essential to take care of your physical and emotional health, so make sure to practice self-care and ask for help when you need it. Being a mom is tough, but with the right tools and mindset (healthy expectations), you got this, mama!  

Recognizing Your Achievements and Celebrating Your Successes

Let’s be real, we all work hard and accomplish things that we should be proud of. It’s important to recognize and celebrate our achievements – big or small. Whether it’s acing a test, getting a promotion, or simply making it through a tough day, acknowledging our successes lifts our spirits and boosts our confidence. 

So take the time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished (not what’s left) and give yourself a pat on the back – you deserve it! Don’t be afraid to share your achievements with others so they can celebrate with you. Let’s raise a toast to recognize our achievements and celebrate our successes!

Learn to Let Go of Perfectionism and Set Reasonable Expectations

Are you a perfectionist? Do you find yourself getting frustrated when things don’t go exactly as planned or if you don’t achieve a certain level of excellence? Well, it’s time to learn how to let go of that perfectionism and set some reasonable expectations for yourself. Trust me, it’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

By setting goals that are challenging yet achievable, you’ll feel much better about yourself and your abilities. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy life a little more when you’re not constantly chasing perfection. So, take a deep breath, let go of those unrealistic expectations, and give yourself a break. You deserve it.

Give Yourself Permission to Take Time for Yourself

We all lead hectic lives with work, school, family, and social obligations pulling us in multiple directions. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but we often forget the most important thing – ourselves. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking time for yourself can actually make you more productive and focused in the long run. 

Whether it’s taking a day off from work to binge-watch Netflix, indulging in a spa day, or simply reading a book in peace and quiet, give yourself permission to prioritize your mental well-being. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary! And, remember, you are also modeling good self-care for the kiddos!

Connect With Other Moms and Find Supportive Communities

Being a mom can be tough. Whether you’re a first-timer, a seasoned pro, a “step/bonus” mom— it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times. That’s where connecting with other moms comes in. Finding a supportive community of women who understand what you’re going through can make all the difference. 

Luckily, with today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to find groups of like-minded moms online and through our podcast! From Facebook groups to mommy blogs, there are countless ways to connect and seek advice. So don’t be afraid to reach out and make those connections – you never know what kind of friendships you might form or how much support you’ll gain.

“Mom Guilt” can be a huge burden to bear, but it doesn’t have to define you as a mom. With understanding and self-awareness, there are steps that you can take to confront the feelings head-on. Challenge yourself to recognize your successes and give yourself permission to take time for yourself. You are strong and capable of handling whatever motherhood throws your way. 

Connect with other moms out there and build a supportive community that allows everybody to feel safe enough to share their stories without fear of judgment or criticism. Reclaim your role as a mom and honor the responsibility that goes along with it. Through work, self-reflection, acceptance, and camaraderie, you’ll soon come out on top in this challenging journey.