Serious question. How do working moms ever feel like they are giving 100%?

This is something I have grappled with since going back to work after baby number one, but you would think ten years into a career, three babies later, a soul crushing pandemic after – that this feeling of only ever being able to show up as half an individual would go away. But as time ticks on the pressure to make an impact & the crushing weight of time adds increasing pressure to prioritize what matters in both worlds.

Feeling like I’m just getting a passing grade, makes sense essentially I’m working another job while on the job. But when I listen to these ‘successful’ women or moms that fit into these neat little social constructs of what it means to be the perfect mom or a successful working mom – I can’t help but be cynical. I guess what I am trying to say is when career orientated women or family orientated women offer shallow advice like it’s just about prioritization I can’t help but think why the hell do we under simplify financial stability and being a present mom – it’s absolutely soul crushing and is not helpful. Both child rearing and work have such a profound impact on a women’s mental health.

I’m not looking for accolades, or affirmations on how I show up as a mother or in the workplace. I’m looking to level set and to affirm mothers who feel this feeling of 50 and like no matter how hard they prioritize they never quite feel like they are getting it right – I see you. No amount of self help, personal biographies, mommy blogger tips of tricks can eliminate the feeling of only ever being half present – because all of it is important and you are just one person with a million priorities all of which need your attention and I think the thing you need to hear is it’s hard, it’s all important and you are just one person and no one has a great solution.

I just want to give you a virtual hug and let you know as confusing this state of being half present is that your not alone and I have no tips and tricks just love and affirmation that what your feeling is real.