What is the definition of overwhelmed? – Webster Dictionary
“bury or drown beneath a huge mass:”
“the water flowed through to overwhelm the whole dam and the village beneath”
Can I Navigate the Chaos with Grace?
Motherhood is a journey filled with love, joy, and countless unforgettable moments. But let’s be honest—it’s also overwhelming, messy, and exhausting. Some days feel like an endless to-do list that you can never quite conquer. The laundry piles up, dinner needs to be made, and the sound of “Mom!” echoes through the house every five minutes. And yet, amidst the chaos, there’s a beauty in this wild, unpredictable season of life.
The Mental Load: Invisible Yet Heavy
One of the most challenging aspects of motherhood is the mental load—that invisible backpack filled with every schedule, snack preference, emotional need, and family responsibility. You’re not just a mom; you’re the family CEO, nurse, chef, and counselor, often all at the same time. It’s no wonder you feel overwhelmed. And guess what? You’re not alone, yet you feel alone.
Acknowledge the Feelings
Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t make you a bad mom. It makes you human. It’s okay to admit that this is hard, that some days you just want to hide in the bathroom for five minutes of peace, and I do! or the laundry room. There are many days I have to sit on my soft rug and pray to the Lord and just take a few minutes to myself. You’re allowed to feel all the things—joy, frustration, gratitude, and exhaustion—sometimes all at once.
Finding Your Ground
While there’s no magic formula to erase the overwhelm, there are small steps that can help you find your footing:
- Prioritize Self-Care: This isn’t about spa days (although, yes, please!). It’s about finding micro-moments to recharge—whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee before the kids wake up or a ten-minute walk outside. I also love to write everything out on paper that is swirling in my mind.
- Ask for Help: You don’t have to do it all.
- Let Go of Perfection: Despite what social media might suggest, no one has it all together. Embrace the imperfection and focus on what truly matters—your love and presence.
- Create Routines: Even simple, predictable rhythms can bring a sense of order to the chaos. It might be as small as a consistent bedtime ritual or a weekly family meal. I thrive on routine!
- Celebrate Small Wins: Did you make it through the day? Did everyone eat? Did you eat? Did you share a laugh with your child? These are victories worth celebrating.
The Gift of Overwhelm
It might sound strange, but sometimes the overwhelm is a reminder of what matters most. It means your life is full—full of love, connection, and the privilege of raising tiny humans who think you’re their whole world. Even when it feels like too much, remember this: You’re doing an incredible job.
Motherhood will never be perfectly balanced, and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, the noise, and the beautiful imperfection of it all. You’ve got this, Mama.
From the end of the earth, I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalms 61:2