I used to be a miserably guilt-ridden mom. I remember distinctly walking into my kitchen one day and just wanting to cry. The dishes were piled in the sink, the leftover breakfast from the morning was on the stove, my son was crying, and my daughter was hungry.
The Voices in My Head Had Me Guilt Trippin’
In the back of my mind I could hear my all the perfect T.V. moms (and sometimes my own mother) telling me I needed to do better. I was a mother now so I needed to keep the house spotless and sanitary. Each day I felt more and more inadequate. But it was tough juggling work, school, and kids all alone. They would never really understand.
I tried to live up to their standards but I always fell short. I was unhappy and depressed. It felt like I couldn’t do anything right.
A Wake Up Call
Then one day I had an epiphany. I looked at all I was doing and how I was keeping it together despite the circumstances. I was a superwoman leaping over my school work, providing for my children, and doing well on my job. I was handling more than any other woman in my life at the time. I was tired of the guilt.
Decide to Dump Guilt and Super Mom Complex
I decided that the dishes would have to wait until I could get to them. I decided to stop feeling guilty and start being glad that I had healthy kids, a nice place to live, food to eat, and money to take care of it all. I was not going to play the role of super woman anymore. I was going to prioritize my life and let the rest of it fall off my shoulders.
Learning that I didn’t have to do it all was the first step to creating a guilt-free life. Putting it all in perspective helped me see what was most important. My kids were most important, then my education, then my career and family. A perfect house was not important at the time. Nurturing my children was top priority. Teaching them and being present for them despite my hectic schedule was important.
Realize You are Enough
Through the years I’ve had to maintain that commitment to guiding and being present for my kids. It hasn’t all been perfect but I’m happy to say that our bond is solid and they are thriving today because of the decision I made in my yesterday.
Guilt truly is pointless. It only causes anxiety and stress which can lead to health problems. You deserve more than that in your life. Hear my tips on how to turn the guilt into gladness while raising healthy, happy children.
Diving Deeper to Dig Up Guilt and Create Balance
I’ll be one of 21 experts to share how to create balance in your life during the Mastering Motherhood summit on August 18. It’s a FREE online event that will surely be a source of encouragement. You will also get lots of free goodies from each expert. I’m excited about what I’ll be giving you to help you re-think the guilt and start embracing your imperfections.
Register here >>> Mastering Motherhood Summit
Samantha A. Gregory is an author, consultant, and speaker. She’s a single-mom lifestyle, money, and parenting expert featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, Essence Magazine, HuffPost, ABC News, and Mint.com.
Samantha founded the award-winning RichSingleMomma.com™, the first online magazine featuring personal finance, parenting, and personal development content and courses for single moms.
She aims to inspire women who are ready to thrive and not just survive in their single motherhood journey. Connect with her on Instagram @richsinglemomma.
