Things I Struggle With as a Working Mom (And Why It Doesn’t Bother Me)

home insemination kit

As a working mother, it’s important to recognize that perfection is an unrealistic expectation. Here are some areas where I don’t excel, and why I’ve learned to accept it.

1. Maintaining Friendships
   Friendships are vital for our mental health, but juggling work and family can leave little room for socializing. It’s natural for some friendships to fade as you reevaluate who deserves your limited time. Prioritize connections that uplift you and let go of those that drain your energy. Remember, being a good friend doesn’t mean spreading yourself too thin. Focus on quality over quantity — you’re doing your best, and anyone who disagrees can take a hike.
2. Date Nights
   We often hear that regular date nights are essential for a healthy marriage, but reality can be quite different. Finding trustworthy babysitters is challenging, and going out every week isn’t feasible for most families. My husband and I aim for a date night every couple of weeks, sometimes even sneaking in time together before picking the kids up from daycare. It’s all about making the most of what you have!
3. Having Energy
   Kids are relentless in their enthusiasm and demands for playtime, but after a full workday, I often feel completely drained. My solution? Dedicating just ten minutes each evening to focus entirely on each child. This small act of attention helps me feel like I’m meeting their needs, while the rest of the evening can be a bit chaotic. On days when they’re worn out too, we’re all in this together.
4. Finding Time for Exercise
   Let’s be honest: I don’t have fitness as a top priority right now, though I do value staying healthy. You may find it hard to stick to a strict workout routine, and that’s okay! I might squeeze in a Barre class or go for a short run now and then, but I also enjoy some quality couch time. Luckily, staying active doesn’t require a gym membership—simple activities like family walks or stretching at home can do wonders. Just remember, you don’t have to look like a fitness influencer to be healthy!
5. Cooking
   I may have convinced my partner that I was a budding chef, but the truth is, I don’t enjoy cooking. Instead of stressing over elaborate meals, I prepare simple dishes a couple of times a week and rely on the grocery store or takeout to fill in the gaps. My go-to is a versatile crockpot recipe that can be transformed into tacos, burritos, or nachos. If cooking isn’t your strong suit, that’s perfectly fine — it doesn’t define your worth.
6. Resting
   Taking time to recharge is crucial, especially when you’re sick or overwhelmed. Yet, with young kids, finding time to rest is often a luxury. I know the importance of self-care, but I struggle to carve out that time. It’s essential to recognize that it’s okay to not rest as much as one should. Life is busy, and sometimes you just have to keep going.

In summary, as a working mom, I’ve come to terms with my limitations in friendship, date nights, energy, exercise, cooking, and resting. It’s all about doing what you can and letting go of the rest. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and it’s perfectly fine to embrace your imperfections.

If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this informative resource or visit Make a Mom for helpful kits like the BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit.