7 Signs You Might Be Losing Your Mind

For women blending motherhood and work, often one of the hardest parts of the mental load is that it’s not shared.?

We feel like we can’t talk about it, which makes it hard for anyone to really be able to help.

But the reality is, there are so many roles each of us can play to help ease the burden for each other.?

Understanding the Mental Load

All those little (and not-so-little) tasks that pile up in a working mother's brain can cause a heavy mental load. We're talking about constantly thinking of our family's needs before our own, arranging logistics, making sure the groceries are done, meals are planned, bills are paid - and the list goes on!?

As the saying goes, “Women are expected to work as if they have no children and raise children like they don’t work.”?

This never-ending list can make anyone feel like they're losing their mind. If you’re struggling with any of the following, know that you’re not alone in experiencing these symptoms of burnout:?

1. Brain fog
2. Trouble Sleeping
3. Anxious thoughts
4. Having a short fuse
5. Family drama
6. Not being present
7. Lack of motivation?

Strategies to Ease the Mental Load

Everyone is likely to succumb to burnout if they’re not aware of what can get them there in the first place. So how do we resolve all this??

Let’s take a look at some tips on how to combat this overwhelm and make sure we stay on a healthy and sustainable track:??

1. Set Boundaries: Technology means we’re always "on," but setting clear boundaries between work and home can keep work from taking over your personal life.?

2. Have Difficult Conversations: It's crucial to talk about these issues with your partner or employer, especially around setting these boundaries and sharing responsibilities.

3. Manage Your Expectations: Cut yourself some slack. You are only capable of so much, and you certainly don't have to be perfect. It's okay if dinner was toast and tinned spaghetti - chances are the kids enjoyed it more than the meal you would’ve spent hours on anyway!?

4. Build Your Tribe: Reach out and connect with other working mums, colleagues or friends. Having a support network can make all the difference. It takes a village, so make sure you are building yours.?

5. Ask for Help: Don't be afraid to ask for help and if someone offers it freely, take it. People won’t do things exactly like you might, but that’s okay - something done a little differently is better than burning yourself out to get it done.?

6. Outsource Where You Can: Hire help for tasks like cleaning or groceries or school pickups where possible. Delegating even the smallest things to someone else can take a huge load off your mind.

7. Be Kind to Yourself: Remember, you're doing your best. Show yourself some compassion and remember to extend that kindness to other working mothers around you. You know yourself how tough this can all be - so why not stick together with others who know what it’s like??

Women, ?I see you, and I hear you and I am you. To those amazing men who listen to this podcast, please check in with the women in your lives and ask them how they're going.?

Let’s not be afraid to keep these conversations going so that working women everywhere can feel safe to unload their burdens and begin to thrive, one step at a time.

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For a copy of my book, 'Go-getter: Raise your mojo, shift your mindset and thrive' – https://www.emmamcqueen.com.au/book/

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