The Reality of Being A Working Mom

Going back to work after becoming a mom has been… a lot. There’s no other way to put it.

As a therapist, I’m used to holding space for other people’s pain, grief, and growth. But coming back meant facing my own transition too—the guilt of leaving, the relief of getting a break, the joy of reconnecting with work I love, and the heartbreak of missing moments at home. All at once.

The truth? I couldn’t have done it without more than a “village.” It has taken family who shows up, childcare I trust, friends who check in, and people who remind me that I don’t have to be everything to everyone, all the time. Most mornings start with phone calls to my best friend in FLA discussing the wild events on the night which normally include - "Liam pulled ziggys hair", "The pacifier won last night" and "It is offical my husband has selective hearing when it comes to Liam crying." These are the silly calls that remind me its OK for things to be HARD and to acknowledge feelings tired and overwhelemed! But, we are strong and being strong means using your support and ASKING for help!

Some days I feel strong, like I can do it all. Other days I cry in the car, wonder if I’m failing, and question if I’ll ever feel like myself again. Both are true. Both are real.

If you’re in this same in-between—trying to show up at work and at home, trying to find yourself in the process—you’re not alone. On the days I feel like I am failing are the days I take that extra moment to do something for myself. I spent the extra 5 minutes journaling about my strengths as a partner and as a mom. Sometimes something so simple as "I picked up dinner for tonight" or "I made time to take ziggy on a walk," reminds me that I am still moving the needle even when I doubt myself. It is also important to seek reassurance from your partner or support system - asking for things that you do or are doing that you may not even notice!

BUT REMEMBER - It’s not easy, and it’s not supposed to be. We’re not broken for finding it hard. We’re human. And we’re figuring it out together. I like to remind myself that everyday is a fresh start, a new blank piece of white paper. It reminds me that it is a new opportunity to check in with my thoughts, energy and expectations. I am doing my best to BE WHERE MY FEET ARE - which means grounding myself in my current state. Remember, we are all in this together!