Being a full-time working mom is no small feat.
Balancing work, a home, and a baby can leave you drained.
Many moms hit a point where the stress builds up, and they just feel overwhelmed by it all.
If you’ve been there (or you’re living it right now), you’re not alone.
There are ways to regain your balance and overcome the chaos of being a working mom.
But first, let’s talk about the signs that you’re a full time working mom overwhelmed. Then dive into some practical tips to help ease the load.
Signs You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
The first step in overcoming overwhelm is recognizing when it’s happening.
Here are some common signs you might be feeling it:
- Feeling exhausted: No matter how much sleep you get, you still wake up tired.
- Irritability: You’re more easily annoyed by things that wouldn’t normally bother you.
- Forgetfulness: Your brain feels foggy, and you struggle to remember things.
- Guilt: You feel guilty, like you’re not doing enough at work or at home.
- Out of Control: Everything feels chaotic, like you can’t catch up or get things in order.
If these symptoms sound familiar, don’t panic! It’s common for working moms to feel this way.
But you don’t have to stay stuck in the cycle of overwhelm.
There are practical steps you can take to reclaim some peace in your life.
How to Overcome the Overwhelmed
1. Prioritize Self-Care (Yes, really!)
I know, self-care can feel like just another thing on the to-do list. But it’s essential.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s important.
When you’re burned out, it’s harder to be the mom, employee, or partner you want to be.
Start Small
Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days (though that’d be nice!).
Start with small moments. Take a few minutes for yourself, even if it’s just 5-10 minutes.
Drink your coffee in peace, take a short walk, or sit quietly and breathe.
Make Time for Rest
Think of it like charging your phone. You can’t keep running without recharging.
Even small breaks during the day can recharge you. Resting will help you keep going.
2. Master Time Management (Your Secret Weapon)
Effective time management is your best friend when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
It helps you feel more organized and less stressed.
Plan Your Day
Create a schedule for your day. Block out time for work, family, and personal breaks. Knowing what to expect makes the day smoother.
Delegate Tasks
You don’t have to be Superwoman. Delegate household chores to your partner, or ask for help from family and friends when you need it.
Hiring help (if possible) is also a great way to free up mental space.
Focus on One Thing at a Time
Multitasking sounds great, but it can add stress.
Focus on one task at a time to get more done and feel less overwhelmed. Whether it’s work or baby care, and give it your full attention.
3. Set Boundaries (and Stick to Them)
Full-time working moms often struggle with boundaries. Whether it’s work bleeding into family time or home stress affecting your job.
Setting boundaries is key to keeping overwhelm at bay.
Work Hours Are Work Hours
When you’re at work (or working from home), set clear work hours and stick to them. Let your employer know when you’re unavailable because you need to focus on your family.
Be Present at Home
When it’s family time, be present. Turn off work notifications and give yourself permission to focus on your loved ones.
This helps reduce the stress of feeling like you’re always “on.”
4. Build a Support System (You Deserve It!)
You can’t do it all alone—and you shouldn’t have to.
Having a solid support system is key to prevent feeling overwhelmed.
Related Reading: The Top 5 Things Every Working Mom Needs—And How Partners Can Deliver
Ask For Help
Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s babysitting, helping with errands, or just emotional support. There’s no shame in needing a break.
Find Your Tribe
Connect with other working moms, whether through social media, local groups, or friends.
You’ll find that others are going through the same struggles. Sharing advice and experiences can be a relief.
Professional Help is OK
If the overwhelm is too much, talking to a therapist or counselor can help. They can give you perspective and coping strategies.
5. Let Go of the Pressure to Be Perfect
Perfection is a myth.
As working moms, we often feel like we need to do everything perfectly. But that’s not true!
Trying to be perfect in every area of life will only add stress.
Be Kind to Yourself
You’re doing your best, and that’s enough. Let go of the pressure to be perfect.
Celebrate Small Wins
Instead of aiming for everything to be perfect, celebrate progress. Did you finish a work project or get your baby to nap? That’s a win!
6. Simplify Home Life
When things are running smoothly at home, you’ll feel more in control.
Here are a few easy ways to simplify:
Meal Prep
Prepare meals ahead of time so you don’t have to cook every day. Make simple, one-pot meals or batch cook on weekends.
Create a Family Calendar
Keep track of everyone’s schedule in one place. This makes it easier to stay organized and know what’s coming up.
Tidy Up, Don’t Deep Clean
You don’t have to clean the whole house every day. Focus on keeping things tidy and manageable instead of perfect.
Related Reading: The Cleaning Schedule Every Working Mom Needs to Know—Get Your Life Back on Track
Simplify Life and Let Go of Perfection
Being a full-time working mom is tough, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed at times.
Try to prioritize self-care, manage your time, and set boundaries. This will help you regain control of your life.
Let go of the need to be perfect and take small steps to simplify your life.
Are you a full-time working mom feeling overwhelmed? What tips have worked for you? Share your experiences in the comments below.Check out more articles like this on workingmomandbaby.com.