Stay at home moms often have a reputation that can be both limiting and unrealistic. There’s a prevailing belief that we don’t have enough time, that we are always overwhelmed, how little sleep we get, and how much pressure we face on a daily basis. And yes, all of that can be true to some extent. However, it also doesn’t have to be the whole story.

As a stay at home mom for the past 12 years, I can tell you that a significant amount of this stress is self-imposed, stemming from our deep desire to please others and meet their expectations. We often burden ourselves with the weight of comparison and societal norms that suggest we should handle everything flawlessly. Once you establish some personal rules and boundaries for yourself and create a structured routine around your day, you can begin to relax more and genuinely enjoy the rewarding experience of being a SAHM.

By prioritizing self-care and recognizing the importance of your own mental health, you can shift your focus from the pressures of motherhood to the joys it brings, enabling you to embrace each moment with your children and cultivate a nurturing and happy home environment. Engaging in activities that replenish your energy and bring you joy, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time with friends, can significantly enhance your overall well-being and parenting experience.

Also, having a supportive partner and good people around you plays an essential role in this journey; they can provide encouragement, share responsibilities, and lend a listening ear, which helps alleviate stress and reinforces your emotional resilience. When you surround yourself with positive influences, you create a strong foundation that empowers you to tackle challenges with greater ease, making your home a place filled with love, laughter, and understanding.

Here are some things that I refuse to feel guilty about in my stay at home mom journey:

Personal Freedom

1. Taking time for myself to recharge.
2. Pursuing my hobbies and interests.
3. Treating myself to luxury things.

Parenting Choices

1. Deciding what's best for my kids upbringing.
2. Not feeling obligated to justify my parenting decisions.
3. Spending as much time as possible with my kids.

Household Management

1. Not having a perfect house.
2. Asking for help when needed.
3. Actually enjoying cooking and cleaning but also delegating.

Self-Care

1. Sleeping in and taking naps.
2. Investing in self-improvement (courses, books).
3. Going on as many adventures as possible.

Societal Expectations

1. Not meeting traditional gender roles.
2. Not being available 24/7.
3. Not feeling responsible for others' opinions.

Financial Decisions

1. Not managing my household finances.
2. Making budget conscious choices but also spoiling myself and my family.
3. Investing in my family's well-being.

Relationships

1. Setting boundaries with family.
2. Maintaining friendships.
3. Prioritizing my relationship with my partner.

Just keep in mind that you are doing your best. Give yourself a break and grace. Your worth isn't defined by your role. Ask for help when needed. Guilt is unnecessary and unproductive. Embrace your role as a stay-at-home mom and celebrate your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses.

Until next time, check out some of my other motherhood tips here.

x, Dijana