She woke up to the sound of her alarm, exhausted before the day had even begun. The kids needed breakfast, lunches packed, and rides to school. Her day was filled with work, errands, dinner prep, and endless household tasks. By bedtime, she’d collapse into bed, drained and dreading another day of the same cycle.
This mom—stressed, tired, and overwhelmed—felt like she was going through the motions. Her energy was empty, her smiles forced, and her once-warm presence reduced to survival mode. She hadn’t seen her friends in weeks, hadn’t taken a moment for herself in months, and felt unappreciated for all she did. She was giving everything she had to her family, but the cost was herself.
The Toll of Always Putting Others First
When you prioritize everyone else’s needs over your own, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are beyond “Mom.” Over time, this constant caregiving without replenishing can lead to burnout, resentment, and a lack of joy in daily life. The love and care you offer your family begins to feel hollow—more about fulfilling obligations than true connection.
What’s more, this pattern sets an example for your daughter. Without realizing it, you might be teaching your daughter that being spread thin, constantly overwhelmed, and neglecting herself is just part of adulthood.
Reflecting on What You Want for Your Daughter
Think about the dreams you have for your daughter. Do you want her to grow up believing that her worth is tied to how much she gives, even at the expense of her own well-being? Would you want her to sacrifice her happiness, friendships, and self-care for the sake of others, leaving her haggard and exhausted?
Of course not. You want her to find joy in her life, to set healthy boundaries, to nurture her relationships, and to value herself as much as she values others. But for her to learn that, she needs to see it modeled. She needs to see you taking care of yourself, prioritizing your needs, and embracing the idea that a happy, fulfilled mom is a better mom.
The Power of Self-Care
Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential. When you take time to recharge, you’re able to show up for your family with more warmth, patience, and love. Self-care looks different for everyone, but it might include:
- Reconnecting with friends who uplift you.
- Pursuing a hobby or interest that brings you joy.
- Taking 10 minutes a day to meditate or journal.
- Setting boundaries to protect your energy and time.
Even small acts of self-care can make a big difference in how you feel and interact with your family.
Turning Survival into Connection
When this overwhelmed mom began prioritizing herself, something shifted. She called a friend she hadn’t spoken to in months, joined a yoga class she’d always wanted to try, and started saying “no” to requests that stretched her too thin. Slowly, her energy returned. She found herself laughing with her kids, enjoying quiet moments with her partner, and feeling like herself again. Her warmth and love weren’t forced anymore—they flowed naturally because she had taken the time to fill her own cup.
As a mom, it’s natural to want to give everything to your family, but remember that you are part of that family too. Taking care of yourself isn’t just about you; it’s about creating a loving, calm, and joyful environment for everyone. And it’s about teaching your daughter that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
So, take a moment to reflect. What do you want for your daughter’s future? What kind of life do you want to model for her? When you prioritize your well-being, you’re not just taking care of yourself—you’re setting the foundation for the kind of life you hope she will have. You’re showing her that being a loving mom and a fulfilled individual are not mutually exclusive. They go hand in hand.
With Heart,
Coach Sheri
