Finding Balance: Juggling 2 Jobs, 3 Kids, and Mom Guilt - A Personal Account

As a mom of three, my life often feels like a whirlwind. Balancing a demanding work schedule with household tasks and my kids' needs can be overwhelming. Like many mothers, I often find myself grappling with feelings of guilt and anxiety. This blog post shares my journey towards achieving balance and the practical tips that have helped me cope with the chaos of everyday life.

The Chaos of a Busy Life

Every evening resembles a race against the clock, some days are harder then others when i am teaching that evening. After a long day at work, I step through the door to a whirlwind of voices clamoring for snacks, homework help, and attention. Each child's needs vary: my eldest needs focused time on study, my middle child thrives on creative activities, and my youngest demands near-constant supervision. My mother is elderly with health issues so i try to have her with me in my home as much as i can weekdays and weekends so she is not on her own.

Some days, it feels like I am juggling an impossible number of tasks. For instance, I frequently face overflowing laundry baskets, stacks of dirty dishes, and a to-do list that seems endless, leading to rising anxiety. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 77% of parents report feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities, a sentiment I can personally relate to.

Understanding Mom Guilt

Mom guilt often sneaks in when I work late or miss a school event or a match. I frequently question whether I am doing enough for my children, a feeling that many moms experience. This guilt is often intensified by societal pressures about what it means to be a “good” parent.

Realizing that mom guilt is common has been crucial for my emotional journey. Many mothers feel inadequate when they see peers effortlessly managing work and family. However, understanding that each family is unique has helped me to combat these feelings.

Managing Anxiety Through Planning

To regain control, I embraced planning. I created a family blackboard in the kitchen, to note key activities for everyone in the house. Seeing our weekly schedule visually has been invaluable.

I haven't adopted meal planning and i know it would make life a whole lot easier.... if im honest i try to cook all meals from scratch.... i do enjoy the fact that 2 out if 3 kids are great eaters and i love watching them eat. The eldest loves to prepare the food so that gives us time to chat and catch up on the days events.

Engaging Kids in Daily Routines

Involving my children in household tasks lightens my load while teaching them valuable life skills. I assign age-appropriate chores to each child: my oldest helps with meal preparation, while my middle boy tidies up toys. The toddler does her own thing :)

Embracing Imperfection

Recognizing that perfection in parenting does not exist has been a relief. No matter how well I plan my day, unexpected challenges will arise—whether it's a forgotten school project or a family spat.

Accepting chaos as part of parenting has eased my guilt. Acknowledging that the house will not be tidy or have perfect clean walls for a long time is ok. Now, instead of aiming for perfection, I focus on enjoying life's imperfect moments. A spontaneous movie night with breakfast for dinner or an indoor BBQ can lead to some of our most cherished family memories. According to research, moments of spontaneity can strengthen family connections, reaffirming the value of flexibility in our routines.

Seeking Support

No mom should navigate this journey alone. I learned the significance of building a support network. Conversations with fellow parents—whether friends, family, or local parenting groups—have provided me with valuable advice and support. i go to counselling once a month and find this amazing just to help me 'close my tabs' or 'paint my picture'

Knowing I am not alone in facing motherhood's challenges is comforting. When I hear others share their struggles, it normalizes the ups and downs of parenting, relieving feelings of isolation. The chats we have in my pregnancy / mum & baby yoga classes have saved me.

Discovering Your Path to Balance

Reflecting on my journey, I understand that balance doesn't mean eliminating chaos; it means navigating it gracefully. Embracing self-care, involving my children, and building a support network have crucially helped me manage mom guilt and anxiety.

If you are a parent feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, remember that it's normal to feel anxious. Give yourself permission to seek balance in ways that resonate with you. Each family's journey is unique, and embracing your own—imperfections included—is what matters most.

Together, we can find balance in the beautifully chaotic world of motherhood.