Let’s be real, being a mom is a full-time job. Add homeschooling, running a business from home, and just trying to remember if you’ve had water today, and it’s a lot.
For me, that invisible weight of planning, remembering, preparing, and caring for everyone? That’s the mental load of motherhood. And lately, I’ve been really intentional about not carrying it alone - or at least, not letting it break me.
If you’ve ever:
Remembered the camp sign-up deadline no one else did
Rewashed the laundry because it sat too long
Packed snacks, found lost shoes, and reminded someone to floss - all before 8 AM…
Then you know. It’s not just what we do - it’s everything we have to think about.
This year, I promised myself: I will not be the last thing on my list.
It hasn’t been perfect, but here’s what’s helped:
I know… sleep is precious. But even just 30 minutes before the house wakes up gives me space to breathe, move, journal, or just exist without needing to serve anyone but myself.
It’s quiet, it’s sacred, and it’s become my favorite time of day.
Whether it’s a walk in the park, some stretches on my porch, or a VR workout while the kids are at camp - I’ve made movement a part of my day. It helps me feel stronger, more present, and more patient. (Okay, mostly more patient.)
My kids are in a four-week camp, and I am not feeling guilty about it. They’re having fun, staying active, and I get a few uninterrupted hours to work, rest, or run errands without chaos in the background.
It’s been a game changer - especially as a business owner and homeschool mama.
I’ve started speaking up more. Asking for help. Letting my partner know what’s on my mind. Sharing with other moms who get it. That alone has lifted so much weight.
The mental load isn’t going anywhere - but I’m no longer carrying it all in silence.
I’m learning to put myself first, not last. To give myself grace. To rest before I break. And I want to remind you that you deserve that too, mama.
If your brain feels full and your soul feels tired - you’re not alone. Start small. Start with you.
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Amber Bowie
Author