As a stay-at-home mom, it’s easy to feel like you’re always on the go. Between taking care of the kids, keeping the house clean, and running errands, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly running on empty.
Allowing this to happen can lead to burnout, which can be detrimental to your health and well-being. It’s a lot to handle, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed and burnt out. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Taking care of yourself is key to avoiding burnout.
Common causes of burnout
So, what are the most common causes of burnout for stay-at-home moms? And more importantly, how can you avoid them? Keep reading to find out.
- Lack of Me Time: One of the most common causes of burnout for stay-at-home moms is a lack of “me time.” When constantly caring for others, it’s easy to let your needs fall by the wayside. But if you don’t make time for yourself, it’s only a matter of time before you start to feel overwhelmed and burned out.
- Social Isolation: Another cause of burnout for stay-at-home moms is social isolation. When you’re at home all day with your kids, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only adult around. And over time, that isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Financial Stressors: For many stay-at-home moms, financial stressors are also a significant cause of burnout. If you’re worried about money—whether it’s how you’re going to pay your bills or how you’re going to afford your kids’ activities—it’s only natural that those worries would start to take a toll after a while.
Taking care of yourself
As mentioned, one of the best ways to avoid burnout is to ensure you’re taking care of yourself. Below are some tips on how to do just that:
Set aside time for yourself
Setting aside some time for yourself every day, even if it’s just 30 minutes, is essential. Use this time to do something you enjoy, whether reading, taking a bath, or going for a walk. You may also want to spend your time answering stimulating crossword puzzle books so that you can give your brain a workout. Taking some time for yourself will help you recharge and deal with the challenges of motherhood with a fresh perspective.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep
Another important aspect of taking care of yourself is ensuring you get enough sleep. When you’re sleep-deprived, it’s harder to deal with everyday stressors. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night; if you can’t get that, take a nap during the day when your kids are napping.
Get organized
One of the best ways to avoid mommy burnout is to get organized. Make a daily or weekly schedule for yourself and your family. Having a plan and a system can help you feel more in control and less stressed. Take some time to figure out what works best for you and your family. Whether making a daily schedule or batch cooking meals, find what works for you and stick with it. You’ll be glad you did when you have more time and energy to enjoy your family.
Reach out for help
Don’t try to do everything on your own! Ask your partner, friends, or family members for help when you feel overwhelmed. They’ll be happy to pitch in, making your life much easier.
Lower your standards
One of the biggest causes of mommy burnout is having unrealistic expectations. No one is perfect, and that includes moms! Cut yourself some slack and lower your standards a bit. That doesn’t mean you must let your house turn into a pigsty or stop showering altogether. But it does mean giving yourself a break when things don’t go perfectly according to plan. Cut yourself some slack, and don’t sweat the small stuff. You’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel when you stop trying to do it perfectly. And your family will love you for it.
Take breaks when you need them
If you’re starting to feel burnt out, don’t be afraid to take a break. Step away from whatever is causing you to stress and take time for yourself. You’ll come back refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
The bottom line
Being a stay-at-home mom is hard work but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you’re looking for ways to avoid burnout, remember to take breaks when you can, set aside time for yourself every week, find a support group, and make self-care a priority. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding burnout and being the best mom you can be!
