I hope this message finds you well. It’s your mom here, and I want to take a moment to express just how much I love each of you. You mean the world to me, and I would go to any lengths to support you. However, there’s an urgent need for change in our household dynamic.
You might be wondering what I’m talking about. I know you believe I can handle everything, and most of the time, I do. But I need your assistance—because I can’t keep doing it all.
Recognizing Your Contributions
Let me be clear—each of you does fantastic work. You take care of the dog (after some persuasion), wash the dishes, and even take out the trash most days without being reminded. You do laundry (occasionally, and just your own), watch over your siblings, clean up messes like that spilled Worcestershire sauce (thank you!), and whip up delightful meals. You also make me laugh, tend to the plants, promote my blog, and give me a chance to hang out with my friends. I truly feel lucky to have such wonderful helpers.
But sometimes, despite all that you do, it doesn’t feel like enough.
The Mental Load
I need you to grasp something important: even with all your contributions, there are days when it still feels overwhelming. Women often bear a mental load that goes unrecognized, and it hit me recently just how much I carry. You’re wonderful at helping when I ask, but I shouldn’t have to. I don’t want to keep picking up stray spoons or yogurt containers from the end table. I don’t want to remind you to put your shoes away again or be the one to draft another email for you.
I’m tired of being the only one to remember we need groceries or who makes the coffee every morning. I don’t want to notice when the counters need cleaning or when the trash is full. It’s exhausting to be the one asked for a glass of milk as soon as I sit down for dinner.
Seeing Beyond the Supermom Facade
I know you can all do more. More importantly, I need you to truly see me. Beyond the “supermom” facade, there are moments when I’m struggling. While I often manage to keep everything afloat, I’m frequently teetering on the edge of burnout.
You may not have witnessed me falter, but trust me, I’m often hanging by a thread. Whether it’s dealing with sick pets, kids, or managing household chaos, I take it all in stride as best I can. But it’s draining.
A Simple Request
So here’s my request: the next time you need something from me, take a moment to consider the state I might be in. Before asking for that small favor you know I’ll handle, think twice. Look closely at me and remember that there’s a chance I’m just about at my limit.
If you can take care of that little task on your own, please do it! Give your supermom a much-needed break.
xoxo,
Your Mom
P.S.
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In summary, I love you all dearly and appreciate everything you do. But I need you to step up more, recognize the hidden pressures I face, and lend a hand without me having to ask.