Let’s face it—mom life has a way of feeling heavy, even on days when things are going smoothly. In this episode, I’m sharing why mom life can be so hard, not to dwell on it but to validate the realities we all face. These aren’t just “mom struggles”; they’re real, shared experiences that can feel a little less isolating when we name them out loud.
✅ You’ll discover why the invisible mental load can feel overwhelming and why it drains you, even when things are “under control.”
✅ You’ll recognize the impact of not having personal time on your sense of balance and well-being.
✅ You’ll understand how isolation and comparison add to the load, making everything feel that much harder.
✅ You’ll feel reassured that it’s okay to feel the weight of it all—and that you’re not alone in facing these challenges.
There’s nothing like motherhood to make you realize how much there is to juggle at once. From the practical daily responsibilities to emotional care and growth, the roles we fill as moms often feel layered and, at times, relentless. Let’s break down the biggest reasons it can feel this way, without any pressure to “fix it”—just a chance to understand it better.
A big reason why mom life feels so heavy is the mental load that we carry. This isn’t just about keeping track of schedules; it’s the constant awareness of everything that needs attention—from managing household needs to remembering your child’s favorite bedtime routine. It can feel like a hundred open tabs in your mind that can’t be closed or set aside, no matter how small each one might seem.
Sometimes it’s as simple as remembering to pick up milk on the way home or mentally preparing for an upcoming school event. It’s normal to feel drained by this constant mental multitasking, which, when left unacknowledged, adds a lot of invisible weight. It’s not just that you’re “doing a lot”—it’s that your mind is working overtime just to hold it all together.
Another reality is how little time moms often have to focus on themselves. Most days, you’re probably running from one task to the next, and by the time you find a moment to rest, the day is over. When this happens regularly, it can start to feel like you’re constantly giving without the chance to refill your own cup.
Even when you get those rare quiet moments, they might go to zoning out just to recover. And that’s okay. Giving yourself a break from the “always-on” mode is essential, even if it looks like a few minutes of scrolling or watching TV. Just know that this lack of personal time isn’t something to feel guilty about; it’s a real challenge most moms face. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s finding small ways to protect a bit of space for yourself whenever possible.
Let’s be honest—comparison can creep in from anywhere. Whether it’s seeing other moms on social media who seem to “have it all together” or feeling pressure from well-meaning comments from friends or family, comparison can quickly make you question yourself.
This episode reminds us that those comparisons don’t have to define our experience. You’re already doing so much. We often don’t talk enough about how difficult it can be to resist those external expectations and focus on what works best for our own families.
Motherhood can sometimes feel isolating, even with loved ones around. With so much change and responsibility, it’s common to feel like no one else fully understands the weight of it all.
This episode touches on why finding support is crucial—not just from others but also from communities that genuinely “get it.” Isolation doesn’t mean you’re actually alone; it’s a feeling that can be lessened when you find people who share similar struggles and understand this stage of life.
This episode acknowledges that mom life is hard, and it’s okay to feel that way. It’s not just you—these are real, universal experiences that come with the territory. By naming these challenges openly, we give ourselves the permission to acknowledge the complexity of motherhood without feeling guilty for finding it difficult.
Motherhood is a full journey that, while challenging, doesn’t have to be something we carry alone. Here’s to creating space for understanding and connection as we support each other in the beautiful, messy, and meaningful work of being moms.
Even with routines and organization, mom life is hard because it involves a lot of invisible mental work—managing everyone’s needs, planning ahead, and constantly adapting. It’s okay to feel tired; this isn’t a sign that you’re doing something wrong. To lighten the load, consider using simple tools, like a shared family calendar app or meal-planning apps, to ease the daily mental juggling. Small adjustments, like rotating meal themes or making sandwiches on busy nights, can also help create more breathing room.
Finding personal time as a mom is essential but often feels impossible. Start small, even with just 5–10 minutes of intentional time that feels like a break—whether that’s a quick stretch, reading, or a quiet moment with coffee. Giving yourself these breaks isn’t selfish; it’s about sustainability and modeling self-care for your kids. Let them see that rest and downtime are valuable parts of a balanced life.
The mental load is a big part of why mom life can feel so exhausting. It helps to break down tasks into manageable steps and delegate whenever possible. Using tools like to-do lists, digital reminders, or AI assistants can keep you on track without having to remember everything yourself. Give yourself permission to prioritize what’s essential—sometimes, letting go of less critical tasks can relieve stress and create space for what matters most.
Comparison is so natural, but it often adds unnecessary stress. Focus on your unique family dynamics and needs, and remember that there’s no single “right” way to parent. A helpful approach is to set intentions based on what truly works for you—whether that’s prioritizing family dinners or encouraging kids’ independence in small ways. Small, consistent actions that fit your values and lifestyle make a greater impact than following external expectations.
Isolation is common in motherhood, but connecting with others can help. If in-person socializing feels hard, consider joining online communities where other moms share similar experiences. Even small interactions, like chatting at your child’s activities or reaching out for playdates, can help break the isolation. Remember, finding a support system is less about quantity and more about building connections that bring you a sense of belonging.
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© MOM LIFE HANDBOOK 2022 | design by tonic | photos by KRISTIN WEINBERG AND ERIN CHRISTOPOULOS | PRIVACY, TermS + CONDITIONS
Mom life is complex,
but it doesn't have to be complicated.
LET'S SIMPLIFY THINGS.
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