Real Parenting
It is amazing how work, life, balance and parenting can even fit in the one sentence. It’s like trying to fit a Great Dane through a doggy door meant for a Chihuahua. Every parent’s journey is different but from my experience many who are working struggle to get some good balance in their lives.
Mummy guilt…. We have all been there in some way or another. For some mothers, the wearing down guilty feeling is a constant presence. It’s like a dirty stain that you can’t get out in the wash. For others, it may just pop up occasionally on its own or may be triggered by an event or emotion. It’s a terrible feeling when you are thinking you might be screwing up your kids. It can be a massive burden which can take a toll on your mental health and set you on a downward spiral.
I am experiencing mummy guilt right now. I’m writing this post while my kids are playing with each other and I’m thinking, ‘should l be spending my time with them? Does this make me a terrible mother?’ Self-doubt is toxic. It creeps up on you like a mosquito in the bedroom when you are asleep. You just want to squash it but no matter how hard you try in the dark, you just can’t do it!
Continue reading “Guilt in Motherhood: a mother’s perspective”
Never in my wildest dreams did l think that my journey to motherhood was going to look like this. Saying to self ‘but you are a midwife and child and family health nurse’ (again). I can tell you it’s a lot different when you are the mother and they are your children. Of course the knowledge and experience has helped in a lot of ways but at times l know l set my expectations really high. Being a professional in the industry does not make me immune from the mummy guilt, self-doubt and fear of not being a good mum.
I’m sure you have all heard the saying it takes a village to raise a child?
Well it’s true. As a parent you can do it by yourself but it is damn hard. Support from others is the fundamental underpinning of your parenting. Without it your physical, emotional and psychological well being are at risk. We need others help.
Parenting is fulfilling yet emotionally and physically stressful. We need to know that there are others out there who will have our back if needed.
It doesn’t have to be just family. It can be family and friends and other professionals. Your village can expand all over the world but the people closest to you will be your best source of help, guidance and support.
