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DEALING WITH MUM GUILT: HOW TO FIND BALANCE AND COMPASSION

  • Writer: Katrina  Haeusler
    Katrina Haeusler
  • Nov 26, 2024
  • 3 min read

Mum guilt is a common feeling many mothers experience, especially when trying to balance parenting, work, and self-care. It can leave you feeling inadequate or questioning your decisions.


In this blog post, I’ll share practical tips for overcoming mum guilt and how Nook’s guided meditations can help you cultivate self-compassion and regain balance.


woman with child


CONTENTS


WHAT IS MUM GUILT AND WHY DO WE FEEL IT?


MUM GUILT IS THE INTERNAL STRUGGLE BETWEEN YOUR EXPECTATIONS AND REALITY.


It stems from the desire to be the "perfect mum," combined with societal pressures and personal insecurities.


Here are three common reasons mums experience guilt:


  • WORK-LIFE BALANCE

    Feeling torn between professional commitments and spending time with your child.


  • COMPARISONS

    Comparing yourself to other mums or idealised depictions on social media.


  • SELF-CARE

    Guilt for taking time for yourself, even though it’s essential for your well-being.



woman getting massage

HOW TO DEAL WITH MUM GUILT


OVERCOMING MUM GUILT STARTS WITH SELF-AWARENESS AND PRIORITISING WHAT TRULY MATTERS.


Here are three practical strategies to help you manage and reduce feelings of guilt.



#1 - PRACTICE SELF-COMPASSION


Being kind to yourself is key to letting go of guilt.


  • Remind yourself that no one is perfect, and making mistakes is part of learning.


  • Reframe negative thoughts with positive affirmations like, “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.”


  • Use Nook’s guided affirmations to reinforce self-compassion and build resilience.



#2 - FOCUS ON QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY


It’s not about how much time you spend but how meaningful it is.


  • Dedicate undistracted time to your child, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes.


  • Create simple rituals like reading a bedtime story or having a special morning cuddle.


  • Acknowledge that small moments of connection matter just as much as big ones.



#3 - SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS


Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on yourself to meet unrealistic standards.


  • Prioritise your to-do list by focusing on what’s essential.


  • Let go of guilt for delegating tasks or asking for help.


  • Remember, taking care of yourself enables you to be the best version of yourself for your family.



woman using phone

HOW NOOK CAN HELP YOU MANAGE MUM GUILT


NOOK’S MEDITATIONS AND AFFIRMATIONS ARE DESIGNED TO HELP MUMS RELEASE GUILT AND EMBRACE SELF-LOVE.


Here’s how Nook can support you:


  • MINDFUL BREAKS: Short meditations help you pause, breathe, and reset when guilt feels overwhelming.


  • SELF-COMPASSION PRACTICES: Affirmations and visualisations guide you toward forgiving yourself and recognising your efforts.


  • EVENING WIND-DOWNS: End your day with gratitude meditations to focus on the positives and let go of self-criticism.



woman meditating

FAQ



Q1: IS MUM GUILT NORMAL?


Yes, mum guilt is a common experience, but it’s important to address it to maintain your emotional well-being.


Recognising it is the first step to overcoming it.



Q2: HOW DO I STOP COMPARING MYSELF TO OTHER MUMS?


Focus on your unique strengths as a mum and remember that everyone’s situation is different.


Social media often shows only the highlights, not the challenges.



Q3: CAN MEDITATION REALLY HELP WITH MUM GUILT?


Yes, meditation can help you process your emotions, reduce stress, and develop self-compassion.


Nook offers guided practices specifically tailored for mums.



baby hand and woman hand

WRAP-UP


MUM GUILT IS A COMMON BUT MANAGEABLE PART OF MOTHERHOOD.


By practicing self-compassion, focusing on quality moments, and setting realistic expectations, you can release guilt and embrace your unique journey as a mum.


READY TO LET GO OF GUILT AND FIND BALANCE?


DOWNLOAD NOOK TODAY AND EXPLORE MEDITATIONS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT YOUR EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING AS A MUM.

 
 
 

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