6 Ways To Overcome Feeling Stuck In Motherhood

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As a mom, feeling overwhelmed or stuck can be a daily challenge. The day-to-day can quickly become exhausting, from organizing to parenting to juggling a job. Everyone needs strategies to stay motivated and find meaningful ways to keep growing. Focusing on both practical tips and how to nurture our own emotional well-being can go a long way in helping us find that balance and overcome feeling stuck.

Often, mothers find themselves experiencing a sense of feeling stuck—trapped in the daily responsibilities, overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do lists, and losing sight of their personal ambitions and dreams. This feeling of being stuck can lead to frustration, burnout, and a sense of discontentment. However, it’s important to remember that feeling stuck is a common experience, and there are ways to overcome it. In this blog, we will explore practical strategies and mindset shifts to help moms overcome feeling stuck, regain their sense of purpose, and find joy and fulfillment in their role as a mother.

Acknowledge and Accept Your Emotions

You know that feeling when it seems like you’re stuck in quicksand, except it is made up of laundry, dirty dishes, and an endless to-do list? Yep, that’s the feeling of being stuck as a mom. It’s that overwhelming sense of being trapped in a never-ending cycle of caring for others while putting your needs on the back burner. So, how do you know if you’re really feeling stuck? If you find yourself constantly exhausted, drained, and lacking any sense of fulfillment, that’s a good indicator. It’s like being stuck in a mom funk, and it’s time to find a way out.

Before we dive into how to get unstuck, let’s take a moment to acknowledge and accept the emotions that come with feeling stuck. You’re not alone in this. It’s perfectly normal to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, and even lost. Motherhood is a wild ride, and it’s okay to admit that sometimes it feels more like a rollercoaster stuck on a loop. So, give yourself permission to feel those emotions because you’re already taking the first step towards finding a way out by acknowledging them.

Let Go of Expectations

One of the most significant contributors to feeling stuck as a mom is the pressure we put on ourselves to be perfect. We have this idea in our heads of what the ideal mom looks like, and when reality falls short of those expectations, it can leave us feeling stuck. So, take a moment to reflect on your own personal and parental expectations. Are they realistic? Are you setting the bar too high? Remember, being a good mom doesn’t mean being perfect; it means doing your best.

It’s not just our expectations that can make us feel stuck. Still, external pressures and societal norms constantly bombard us from all directions. Whether it’s the pressure to bounce back to your pre-baby body or the constant comparison on social media, these external factors can contribute to that trapped feeling. Take a step back and evaluate these pressures. Recognize that they don’t define your worth as a mom. You’re doing fantastic, even if you don’t have the energy to post a perfect Instagram photo daily.

Shift Your Mindset

Sometimes, we unintentionally hold ourselves back from getting unstuck because of our mindset. We convince ourselves that we can’t pursue our passions or take time for ourselves because we’re moms. But here’s the thing: being a mom doesn’t mean sacrificing your dreams and desires. You were a somebody before becoming a mom, and you still are a somebody.

Being a mom is just a title among the long list of other titles you have.. sister, friend, aunt, whatever. These titles are attached to your lower self or ego and do not define who you are. After all, everyone has a title. Who are you if you didn’t put a label on yourself? Tap into your unlimited beliefs—what sets you apart from others. It’s time to challenge your limited beliefs and realize that you can still be an incredible mom while also nurturing your identity and pursuing your goals.

Do Something for You

Self-care is not just an indulgence but a necessity, especially when feeling stuck. As a mom, it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs before your own, but neglecting self-care will only keep you firmly planted in that feeling of being stuck. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing self-care means giving yourself permission to recharge and refuel so you can show up as the best version of yourself for your family.

Frequently, I hear moms making excuses for not prioritizing self-care for themselves. Such as I don’t have anyone to watch the baby… the baby doesn’t want to nap, etc. Take baby steps. It doesn’t have to be anything drastic. Start by carving out small pockets of time for yourself throughout the day, whether it’s a 10-minute meditation session, a quick walk around the block, or even just savoring a cup of coffee in peace. Get creative and find what works for you. Remember, self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant; it just needs to be intentional.

Stop Trying To Do Everything

You’re not Supermom, and that’s okay. It’s time to let go of the need to do it all and seek help. Whether asking your spouse to take over bedtime duties a few nights a week or reaching out to family and friends for support, delegating responsibilities can lighten your load and give you more breathing space. You have to create your village. You don’t have to be a one-woman show, so don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.

If you can’t get help, that’s okay too. Some things just can’t get done that day and must wait until the next day or week. Don’t try to deep clean the house, wash and fold laundry, run errands, and cook dinner all in one day. You’re doing too much and will be burnt out. At the end of the day, you and your children want you to be happy.

Get The Children Involved

Finding a balanced routine and schedule can be a game-changer when overcoming that feeling of being stuck. Take the time to figure out what works best for you and your family. Experiment with different schedules and routines until you find something that works well.

With that being said, get the children involved when setting schedules and routines, especially when it is time to clean up. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy. They can pick up their toys and put them in the toy bin, clean up spills, and sweep if they are old enough. Children like to be helpful even though they may be making a bigger mess. Just be patient with them. They will get it. This helps instill responsibility in children from a young age. Finding balance should be flexible enough to accommodate the unpredictability of motherhood while providing a sense of responsibility, structure, and stability.

Conclusion

As moms, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and feel like no matter what we do, it’s never enough. We want to do it all! But it’s important to acknowledge and take steps to overcome our challenges. Prioritizing, connecting, nurturing our emotional well-being, and celebrating our accomplishments can help us find balance and stay motivated.

Feeling stuck as a mom is a natural part of the journey, but it doesn’t have to define your experience. By recognizing and acknowledging these feelings, identifying their root causes, and implementing practical strategies, you can break free from the cycle of stagnation and rediscover your sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Remember to prioritize self-care, seek support from other moms and professionals, explore new hobbies and interests, and redefine your roles and responsibilities. With a balanced routine and a renewed perspective, you can overcome feeling stuck and embrace the joys of motherhood with a renewed sense of empowerment and satisfaction. You deserve to thrive, and you can with the right tools and mindset.

FAQs

1. Is feeling stuck as a mom a common experience?

Yes, feeling stuck as a mom is a common experience that many mothers go through at some point. The responsibilities and demands of motherhood can sometimes lead to a sense of being trapped or overwhelmed. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this, and there are strategies to overcome this feeling and regain a sense of fulfillment.

2. How can I find time for self-care as a busy mom?

Finding time for self-care as a busy mom can be challenging, but it’s essential for your well-being. Look for small pockets of time throughout the day where you can prioritize self-care activities, even if it’s just a few minutes to explore creative ways to incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Remember, even small acts of self-care can make a significant difference.

3. I feel guilty for pursuing my own interests and hobbies. How can I overcome this guilt?

Guilt is a common emotion experienced by many moms when they take time for their interests and hobbies. Taking care of yourself and pursuing your passions can benefit you and your family. Remind yourself that you deserve time for yourself and that your well-being is equally as important. Challenge the guilt by recognizing that this time can re-energize you, making you a happier and more present mom.

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