By: Jamie Collins
Updated: Aug. 26, 2023
Originally Published: Dec. 12, 2015
You’ve done it all—laid out outfits the night before, prepped bags, snacks, and purses, all in an effort to streamline the morning chaos. You’ve even showered the night before and set your alarm to rise before the kids do. You’ve meticulously organized every aspect of your routine to ensure a timely departure. Yet, despite your best efforts, you find yourself in the driveway, firing off a text that reads, “Running late! Sorry! I’ll be there shortly.”
Let’s be honest: it’s okay to be late. Take a moment to breathe and shake off the guilt. You’re not alone; many of us can relate to the frantic race against time.
I often find myself in the same situation. My tendency to run late isn’t a result of genetics or laziness. Before kids, I was that person who believed in arriving 15 minutes early. Sure, I had my moments of indecision about what to wear, but for the most part, punctuality was my mantra. (Thanks, Mom and Dad, for instilling that in me—now I understand how annoying it can be to have early guests.)
Then came motherhood. Suddenly, my internal clock seems to have malfunctioned. I could be ready to leave in record time, only for some unexpected event—a car that won’t start or a child who has hidden my keys—to derail my plans. I went from being the punctual one to perpetually late.
For example, just the other day, I woke up to an invasion of fruit flies in my kitchen. Determined not to let it derail my day, I pushed through, but on my way out, I caught a whiff of something foul. Ten minutes later, I unearthed a ten-pound bag of rotting potatoes from the depths of my pantry. Who knew that air holes in potato bags could turn into drip holes? After dealing with that mess, I ended up 30 minutes late to my appointment. What was I supposed to do? If you have a better solution, please enlighten me!
These kinds of hiccups happen to moms every day. Maybe your partner is frantically searching for his wallet right as you’re about to leave, or your neighbor stops you for a lengthy chat about your dog’s anxiety treatment.
It’s time to put an end to the guilt that comes with being the “Running Late Mom.” We’re late because we care. We want our kids to look presentable, as it reflects respect for others. We want to bring something special to gatherings, acknowledging the effort others put into planning them. We don’t want to be rude by dismissing chatty neighbors, and we strive to return to a home that’s not a complete disaster.
Let’s face it: there’s just not enough time in the day. So let’s cut ourselves some slack. We’re not lounging around, munching on snacks while binge-watching the latest series. Mothers are constantly hustling to juggle everything life throws at us.
I want to say what every late mom wishes she could express: “I’m sorry, but I’m doing my best. Life just has a funny way of throwing curveballs when I least expect it.” We will eventually make it to our destinations—just wait for the text that says, “On my way!! :-)”
For more insights on navigating motherhood, check out this resource on toddler behavior from Intracervical Insemination. And for those on a journey of home insemination, you might find helpful tips in this article about couples’ fertility journeys. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on what to expect during your first IUI, this guide is an excellent resource.
In summary, being late is part of the chaotic yet beautiful journey of motherhood. Embrace the messiness and remember that you’re doing your best amidst life’s unpredictability.