Say Goodbye to Mommy Guilt

Mommy guilt is common. The following are some of the common sources of mommy guilt, and how to rid yourself of it:

Yelling: Yelling is the thing moms feel guilty about. If you count yourself among the number of people who are stressed about yelling at your kids, cut yourself some slack. The fact of the matter is that yelling is very much a part of mothering. However, if it is really getting to you, think of something you can do to help yourself. For example, try counting to 10 or 20 before disciplining. Choose a word to indicate when you are too mad to not yell and share it with your children so that they know you are losing your temper, and they need to give you a break.

Not wanting to play: Moms have a lot on their plates, including being their child’s playmate. If your child insists you play with them, and you simply do not have time, do not let mom guilt set in. Your children don’t need to be entertained during every waking hour and that is not your job. Conversely, when you spend time with them, enjoy that time and them; do not think about the other things you should be doing. This is a great way to rid yourself of mom guilt because you know when you do spend time with them it is good time.

Not wanting sex: Sometimes as a mom who spends all day with little bodies clinging to her, physical contact of sex is simply not appealing. Not to mention the fact that the work that is being a mom can be exhausting. Do not let yourself feel bad but remember that your relationship with your husband is important as well; if you find you are too stressed, tired and touched-out for intimacy with your spouse, you might need to make some changes in your life so you can enjoy time with your husband.

Wishing you were free: One guilty feeling which many moms feel, on occasion, is wishing they did not have kids. This does not mean you do not love your kids; life is simply far easier without them. Airport lines are not as long and sleep deprivation is a choice. Do not feel guilty when you start feeling this way. Instead, do something to help rid yourself of these feelings. Take some “you” time to recharge and relax; you will feel rejuvenated and ready to be mom again.

Working: Moms sometimes think that their only job should be mothering their kids, so if they take on a job outside of the home and let “someone else raise their children” they are riddled with guilt. You should not feel guilty because you are helping support your family. As long as you still spend quality time with your kids, don’t beat yourself up. If you really feel bad, work something out with your husband so you can work part-time or work to alternate your schedules so your children are not with a sitter as often.