If you are a working mother, there’s a good chance you struggle with mother’s guilt. You may feel guilty for working too much and not spending enough time with your children, or you may feel guilty because you would prefer to be at work rather than at home with them. At Colorado Women’s Center we understand on a deep level that regardless of the reason, there is nothing quite like the feeling of a mother’s guilt.
Working and raising children is not easy to do in this country. The cost of childcare makes parents question whether a dual income is even worth it. Even as men take on stronger roles in parenting, the responsibility of the children continues to fall primarily on the mother. Whether you love your job or hate it, juggling kids, life, and work remains extremely difficult.
Are you so busy that you are spinning? Do you live with a constant to-do list in your head? Are you afraid that something will fall through the cracks at any minute? Balancing all of your needs and those of your family may at times seem impossible, especially if you are running on empty. Setting aside time each day that is just for you matters more than it sounds. If you are early in this and still finding your footing, therapy for new moms is a place to start.
Maternal guilt is a very primal emotion, and despite its torture, it has a profound purpose. It pushes mothers to seek what’s best for their young. Sometimes guilt is a warning signal that you need to make a change in your life. At Colorado Women’s Center we strongly believe that when you take care of your own emotional and physical needs, you are better able to take care of your children’s needs. Creating a healthy balance between work and family starts with being clear-headed and restored. Our work-life balance therapy helps you get there. This means alone time, proper rest, movement, regular meals, and time with friends. Sound impossible? Maybe according to the day-to-day lists you have set up for yourself. There is always something you can let go of or pass off to someone else. It may require uncomfortable change, and your peace and sanity are worth it.
Being a working mother is not valued enough in our society. Women are expected to play both male and female roles. Many brave people before us fought hard for women in the workforce, and it is still a challenge. It’s a gift to be able to work, and it’s a gift to be a mother. Finding a healthy dance between the two can make this time one of the most rewarding of your life. The child-rearing part will be gone before you know it. Once you are able to find space and time for your own nurturing, you will be able to appreciate every part of this journey.
The therapists and counselors at Colorado Women’s Center can help you organize your thoughts so you can start organizing your life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.