Gratitude over Mom Guilt
If you're anything like me, you're had those moments when the weight of being a working mom feels a bit overwhelming. Moments where you question everything you're doing and wonder how you'll ever be able to keep juggling all the balls in the air. Trust me, you're not alone. The juggle (and the struggle!) is real, and so is the guilt that sneaks in when things don't feel picture-perfect.
In a recent episode of my podcast, I delved deep into something that might just be a game-changer for how we view guilt. As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I couldn't help but share a little acronym that helps working moms reframe the guilt they feel through gratitude: The THANKS Model.
Let's break it down into its simplest form:
T = Take Time for Reflection
Self-reflection is a secret weapon we often forget to use. It's about carving out moments to pause, journal, or simply pray. This reflection time isn't about piling on more guilt—it's strategic, aimed at assessing priorities and setting boundaries to balance life's demands.
H = Harness the Power of Gratitude
Gratitude acts as a shield against guilt. It doesn't erase it, but it certainly helps to minimize it. Shifting our focus from what we lack to what we're grateful for can transform our mindset. Embrace a gratitude journal or find an accountability partner to share daily moments of thankfulness.
A = Appreciate Achievements
Celebrate wins, big or small. Sometimes, getting everyone out the door on time deserves a standing ovation. Acknowledging accomplishments, be it work-related or managing household chores efficiently, shifts our perspective on how we're doing.
N = Nurture Your Wellbeing
Prioritize your mental, physical and emotional health. It's easier said than done, I know. But it's crucial to carve out time for activities that recharge you—whether it's a quick run, reading a book, or just a few minutes of silence away from the chaos.
K = Kindness to Yourself
It's not just about doing things for yourself; it's how you treat and feel about yourself. Beating ourselves up for not meeting impossible standards only adds more weight to the guilt. Give yourself the grace and understanding you readily offer others.
S = Build a Supportive Network
Seek help and support. You're not alone in this. Talking to colleagues, friends, family members or even professionals like a counselor might offer insights you hadn't considered. Sharing experiences often reveals that the standards we set might be unattainable.
This acronym isn't just for Thanksgiving—it's a year-round toolkit.
Above all, remember that you're doing an amazing job. And if you don't believe that, I can tell you, that by simply looking for resources on how to juggle it all...it's an indicator that you care. And when you care, you're doing the best with the resources you have at your disposal. To that end I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving - and here's to embracing gratitude to ease the weight of working mom guilt.
