How to rid yourself of working-mom guilt

Mar 23, 2012 9:00 AM by Molly Cerreta Smith

Posted in Parenting / New Moms

If there's one thing that comes standard with motherhood, it's guilt. Working moms often experience this to a different degree, but that doesn't have to be the case. Here's how to get rid of working-mom guilt forever. That's right -- we said forever.

Ditch working-mom guilt for good

There are many times in your child's life that you just can't miss. And while you can't necessarily plan for each and every one of those moments, you can arrange to be there for most of the major milestones.

Be there when it matters most

Have a heart-to-heart conversation with your boss about this so you won't feel guilty if you have to cut out of work early every now and then for an important family moment. If your current boss isn't empathetic to your family commitment, maybe it's time to find one who is.

How to talk to your boss about a flexible work schedule >>

Don’t bring work home with you

When you have that quality time with your child, don't let anything (especially work) interrupt it. Put your phone on vibrate, ignore those emails and just revel in that irreplaceable one-on-one time with your child.

Think positive

Instead of focusing on what you are not able to give your baby (such as 24-hour access to you and only you), think about the opportunities you are giving him. Daycare centers offer wonderful playtime with other children, nannies love your children like their very own and preschools prepare your children for kindergarten academically as well as socially. What more could a baby ask for?

Give yourself a break

Understand that balancing motherhood and a career is a challenge for every working mom out there! Don't expect perfection from yourself in every aspect of your life at all times -- it's totally unrealistic. Cut yourself some slack if you are five minutes late picking up your child from daycare or if you need to ask your boss for a deadline extension just this once.

Practice
stress-busting techniques

Balancing it all is a superwoman task that can cause some serious stress. Find ways to relieve stress such as jotting down your frustrations, expressing your feelings to a trusted friend or adviser, practicing deep breathing or meditation techniques, getting a full night's rest, using guided imagery to calm your mind and exercising.

Ask for Help

The belief that you have to do it all can mentally wear you down. Let go of those guilt-fostering expectations and delegate! Chat with your husband about balancing the family responsibilities, ask a friend or family member to lend a hand every now and then or check in with other working moms to see how you can help each other out.