The Silent Struggles of a Working Mom: Finding Balance Between Career & Motherhood

A cozy working space

Some days I feel like I’m thriving. Other days, I feel like I’m drowning in to-do lists, unread emails, and mommy guilt. The truth is, the silent struggles of being a working mom aren’t talked about enough. So today, I want to talk about them. Not to complain, but to connect. Because if you’re walking this same tightrope, I want you to know—you’re not alone.

1. The Guilt That Never Leaves

Even when I know I’m doing my best, there’s this tiny voice whispering, “You missed that field trip,” or “You weren’t fully present at dinner.” The guilt isn’t always logical, but it’s real. And it’s heavy.

2. The Constant Mental Load

Work deadlines. Doctor’s appointments. Grocery lists. Birthday gifts. School projects. I’m juggling it all, and it often feels like my brain is a browser with 50 tabs open.

3. Career Ambition vs. Mom Priorities

I love what I do. I’ve built something I’m proud of. But I’ve also paused Zoom calls to help with homework or pushed deadlines because my child needed me. That tension between wanting to be everything for everyone? It’s exhausting.

4. The Lack of “Me Time”

Self-care often feels like a luxury I don’t have time for. But when I do make time—for a walk, a hot bath, or just ten minutes of silence—I remember how important it is. Not just for me, but for everyone who depends on me.

5. The Beauty in the Chaos

Still, despite all the mess, the tantrums, the burnout... there are quiet, beautiful moments. The sleepy snuggles. The spontaneous "I love yous." The pride in seeing both my child and my work grow.

I don’t have it all figured out. And that’s okay. What I’ve learned is that balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about rhythm. Some days the scales tip toward motherhood, other days toward work. I’ve stopped trying to achieve balance every single day. Now, I aim for harmony over time.

💬 Are you a working mom too? What’s one silent struggle you wish more people talked about? Share in the comments—we’re in this together.

With love,

Annie 💛