When You’re Feeling Like a Bad Mom...

Motherhood is full of highs and lows. Some days, you feel on top of the world. Other days, the weight of worry, exhaustion, or guilt creeps in and suddenly you wonder, Am I enough? Am I doing this right?

If you’ve ever felt like a “bad mom,” know this: you are not alone. These feelings are part of the human experience, especially in motherhood, a role that demands everything and yet asks us to be perfect. Spoiler alert: perfection doesn’t exist here.

Why do these feelings come up?

• Unrealistic expectations (from yourself or others)

• Comparing your journey to highlight reels on social media

• Exhaustion that clouds your confidence

• Moments when life just feels overwhelming

How to move through it

• Pause and breathe. Your breath is your anchor. It reminds you that you’re here, doing your best.

• Practice self-compassion. Talk to yourself like you would to your best friend.

• Celebrate small wins. Every hug, every meal, every bedtime story counts.

• Connect to your body. Gentle yoga and mindfulness can ground you in the present and help release tension.

• Reach out. Sharing your feelings with trusted friends or community helps you realize you’re not alone.

Remember: You are enough.

Your love, your presence, your effort... they all matter so much more than any “perfect” standard.