Motherhood can be an incredibly challenging journey, often accompanied by an overwhelming sense of guilt. This feeling, commonly referred to as “mom guilt,” permeates every aspect of our lives. It’s not just about how we feel towards our children; it extends to our partners, parents, in-laws, coworkers, careers, and friendships—essentially, it’s a never-ending guilt parade that marches through our daily lives.
While we may occasionally manage to push some of that guilt aside, it tends to be replaced with a fresh wave of it almost immediately. If you find yourself grappling with mom guilt—whether it’s because you dread playing “pretend” with your toddler, feel torn between your career and family, or simply want to keep the grandparents at bay during these trying times—we hear you. Mom guilt can be a heavy burden, affecting our mental health and making us feel inadequate when we are genuinely doing our best.
Since working from home, I’ve found myself increasingly frustrated because my kids just won’t give me a moment of peace. During Zoom meetings, they interrupt constantly, making it difficult for me to focus, and I end up feeling guilty for being annoyed.
Confessions of a Mom
Confessional #25781338
I feel terrible for losing my patience with my son lately.
Confessional #25780463
I can’t help but feel guilty when I see other parents who seem perfectly content staying home with their kids all day.
I love my children, but I really need a break—too bad the grocery store is the only escape available.
Confessional #25778477
I’m grateful that both my partner and I have jobs, but juggling work, homeschooling our kids, and keeping everyone fed and entertained daily is exhausting. I feel guilty for not being able to do it all.
Confessional #25776600
Quarantine has introduced a new level of mom guilt! We’re expected to manage the impossible, yet we still feel bad for not achieving it.
I’m also fed up with my mom’s guilt trips! She’s desperate to see the grandkids, but hello, we’re in a pandemic. I don’t care what her friends are doing; we’re following the rules!
Confessional #25781563
Every time I talk to my mom, she reminds me of how I should bring the kids over. I think I need some space from that negativity.
Confessional #25780744
I know my grandma is sad, but enough with the guilt! We’re all just trying to survive here.
Sometimes, the weight of PMDD combined with mom guilt feels unbearable. Is too much screen time really worse than being yelled at all day?
Confessional #25781676
My son tells me I’m his best friend, which is a lot of pressure for me because I have Asperger’s. I feel guilty worrying he’ll struggle with friendships.
Confessional #25780423
The guilt is suffocating.
I absolutely hate planning birthday parties, but I do it out of guilt so my kids can enjoy it.
Confessional #25770312
Mom guilt pushes us to do things we detest.
My son just wants me to play with him, but I’m so worn out. I feel like a terrible mom for not being more engaged with him.
Confessional #25779127
Yet, we still grapple with the guilt of never feeling like we do enough.
It’s frustrating to feel guilty about not wanting intimacy with my partner, especially when I haven’t been satisfied in years. Why do I feel bad for saying no?
Confessional #25776661
We often feel guilt even when it doesn’t make sense to.
I can’t stand my dogs right now, and I feel guilty for saying that—they’re just so annoying!
Confessional #25781595
Even our pets can make us feel guilty.
I love my son unconditionally, but it’s been so peaceful since he moved out. I feel guilty for thinking that way.
Confessional #25780117
We feel guilty when we finally enjoy some quiet time.
The never-ending pile of dishes is driving me crazy! I’m considering using paper plates to make my life easier, but I feel guilty about the environmental impact.
Confessional #25777641
We feel guilty for taking steps to simplify our lives.
I’m worried about my job stability and what it means for my dreams of attending nursing school. I feel guilty for wishing for something better for myself.
Confessional #25776671
We wrestle with guilt for wanting to prioritize our own aspirations.
Having been a stay-at-home mom for 12 years after earning my degree, I feel useless and guilty for not using my skills, even though I know I need to be there for my kids.
Confessional #25775243
We feel guilty for not utilizing our education while also feeling guilty for staying home.
At 38 weeks pregnant, I want this baby out of me, but the responsibility that comes next feels overwhelming. I feel guilty just wanting my body back.
Confessional #25774821
Even while creating life, we find ways to feel guilty.
I had to cancel my son’s birthday party due to venue restrictions, and I still feel guilty about it.
Confessional #25772520
We feel guilty about things entirely beyond our control.
I feel guilty admitting that this time at home has been somewhat enjoyable for my family—a much-needed break from the chaos.
Confessional #25776520
I’m juggling multiple job offers while friends in hospitality face layoffs, and I feel guilty about my good fortune.
Confessional #25773202
We feel guilty when things are going well for us while others are struggling.
I’ve decided to allow my daughter unlimited screen time today because, why not? It’s Friday, and I’m ignoring the guilt.
Confessional #25778639
I’m giving myself permission to nap every day, realizing this is more important than I thought.
Confessional #25776536
Many pregnancy “rules” seem designed to instill guilt in women for things beyond their control. I’m taking that Advil if I need it!
Confessional #25771288
Ignoring the guilt can be liberating, and it’s one of the best gifts we can give ourselves.
I went to bed upset with my son and my mom, woke up sobbing. I think it’s guilt for being angry with my child and realizing how disappointing my family has been. He’s wonderful, though, and I know he’ll break this cycle!
Confessional #25781576
If we can break the cycle of guilt we were raised in, our children will be better off.
We don’t want our kids to grow up burdened by guilt, so it’s essential to disrupt this cycle. We must learn to let go of the self-blame for things we cannot control. Motherhood is inherently challenging, and the added stress of a pandemic has only amplified our struggles.
The weight of constant guilt is detrimental to our mental health. We deserve to prioritize our well-being, and so do our kids. Let’s work together to overcome this guilt once and for all. For more insight into these challenges, check out this related post on our blog.
Summary
Motherhood often comes with an overwhelming sense of guilt that affects every area of a mom’s life. This guilt can lead to feelings of inadequacy and pressure, making it challenging to enjoy the journey of parenting. Understanding that it’s okay to take breaks and prioritize self-care can help alleviate some of this burden. By breaking the cycle of guilt, we can create a healthier environment for ourselves and our children.