Emotionally Overwhelmed- Navigating Feelings on the Journey of Motherhood

Some moms feel inadequate, tired, or even guilty. The truth is, motherhood is beautiful — but it's also incredibly demanding. Whether you're caring for a newborn, homeschooling your kids, or managing an endless to-do list while your toddler clings to your leg, the emotional weight can feel overwhelming. You're constantly giving, often without a break, and that kind of selfless love can leave you depleted.

There are moments when you might quietly ask yourself, “Am I doing this right?” You might compare yourself to other moms who seem more organized, more patient, or more put-together, especially on social media. These comparisons can slowly erode your confidence, making you wonder if you're enough for your children, your spouse, or even yourself. But hear this, mama: you are doing a sacred, irreplaceable work — even on your messy days.

You may catch yourself reminiscing about life before motherhood. Maybe it felt simpler then — fewer responsibilities, more sleep, more time for yourself. Or perhaps you feel like motherhood caught you in a whirlwind of change, especially after global shifts like the pandemic. You’re not wrong for missing your “old self” or wishing for a break. It doesn’t mean you love your children any less; it means you’re human.

In your quiet moments, you might even question your purpose. When the days feel repetitive or lonely, you might wonder if anyone sees all the effort you pour out. But God sees it. He honors it. Every diaper changed, every meal prepared, every tear wiped — it all matters. Your worth is not defined by how much you get done or how well your kids behave. Your identity is rooted in Christ, not in your productivity.

You’re not alone, and you’re certainly not crazy. The thoughts you wrestle with — whether it’s fear, guilt, sadness, or even resentment — are more common than you might think. Motherhood has a way of unearthing all kinds of emotions, and it doesn’t make you weak. It makes you honest. It means you’re fully present in one of life’s most demanding and meaningful roles.

These feelings are very real — and they’re completely normal. You might feel overwhelmed one moment and deeply grateful the next. You may cry while folding laundry, then laugh five minutes later when your child says something hilarious. That emotional back-and-forth isn’t a sign that something is wrong with you. It’s a sign that you’re human. Real motherhood is not about feeling perfect — it's about showing up through the imperfections.

As mothers, we ride a rollercoaster of emotions every day. From the moment we wake up to the last late-night check-in, we are constantly giving — emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. That kind of daily outpouring can leave us vulnerable to emotional highs and lows. And yet, even on the hard days, there’s beauty in the journey. These emotions remind us that we care deeply.

But here’s the empowering truth: we get to choose which thoughts and feelings take root in our hearts. We can’t control every emotion that surfaces, but we can decide which ones we will water and nurture. Will we dwell on the lie that says we’re not enough, or will we speak truth over ourselves — that we are equipped, loved, and chosen for this role?

So the next time a negative thought sneaks in, pause and breathe. Ask yourself: Is this thought helpful? Is it true? Then replace it with something life-giving. You don’t have to be perfect — just present. Remember, mama, God is with you in every feeling, every choice, and every moment. And you’re doing better than you think.

Dear mama,

Emotions are a natural part of being human — yes, even the hard ones. And the good news? Emotions are temporary. You won’t feel this way forever. Some days you’ll feel full of joy and purpose. Other days, it may feel like the weight of the world is pressing down on you. That doesn’t mean you’re broken — it just means you’re real.

Over the years, I’ve learned that many moms hide their sadness or overwhelm, afraid of being judged. We're supposed to "have it all together," right? But that pressure to be the perfect mom can be suffocating — especially when no one sees the mental load you carry.

The first step to emotional and spiritual health is this: embracing all emotions as part of your God-given design. And a great way to do that is by naming them honestly.

Let me tell you a story.

Meet Anna: A Stay-at-Home Mom Just Like You

Anna left her job to stay home with her two little ones. For a while, everything seemed fine — until the days started blending together. She felt tired, overlooked, and constantly worried about whether she was doing enough. She scrolled through Instagram and saw other moms who looked happier, thinner, more organized. She started believing the lie: “Maybe I’m just not cut out for this.”

Her anxiety built up. She started snapping at her husband, retreating into her phone, and avoiding conversations. The joy she once had in being home started fading.

But something shifted.

Anna chose to disconnect from social media for a while. She replaced that time with morning walks, journaling, and intentional conversations with her husband. She started inviting God into her emotions and let Him teach her through the discomfort.

Mama, you may not enjoy emotions like stress or sadness — who does? But they can be powerful teachers. Emotions can reveal what needs attention in your heart. Maybe they’re showing you a need for rest, or the importance of healthy boundaries, or the blessing of friendships that truly nourish you.

Here's a simple mindset shift:
Instead of saying “I am a terrible mom”, try saying “I feel like a terrible mom today.”
There’s a big difference. Feelings are real, but they are not facts, and they don’t define your worth.

The Bible reminds us that we are not ruled by our emotions:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” — Galatians 5:22–23

You are not your emotions. Just because you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even angry doesn’t mean that’s who you are. Emotions are temporary messengers — not permanent identities. Your feelings might change by the hour, but your value remains constant. You are a beloved daughter of God, seen and cherished right where you are.

You are growing. You are learning. Every hard day is shaping you into a stronger, wiser, more compassionate woman. Maybe you don’t always get it right — none of us do — but you show up. You keep going. That matters more than you know. And yes, mama, you’re doing better than you think. God sees the effort no one else applauds.

This season of motherhood can be exhausting, no doubt. But what if you looked at it as more than just survival? What if it’s also a sacred training ground — a place where you’re being refined, where your patience deepens, your grace expands, and your emotional strength is built day by day? This isn’t just a phase to “get through.” It’s a place of growth and transformation.

So be kind to yourself. Don’t let the dirty dishes or unwashed hair define your day. Take a deep breath. Step outside if you can. Let your heart quiet down, even just for a few minutes. In those still moments, let God meet you right where you are, not where you wish you were. He’s not waiting for a perfect version of you. He’s walking with you now.

You are not just an “emotional mom.” You are a brave, capable, and deeply loved woman, handpicked by God for your family. You are a nurturer, a protector, a teacher, and a safe place for your children. And through every high and low, God is holding you close and writing a beautiful story through your motherhood.

Take care♥

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