As a working parent, I know firsthand how relentless the demands of life can feel. It’s as if there’s an endless ticker tape of tasks running through your mind: emails to answer, meals to prepare, forms to fill out, and let’s not forget the mental gymnastics required to ensure you’re giving your kids the best version of yourself. It’s no wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed, anxious, or distracted.
Parenting Is Filled with Moments of Overwhelm
It’s normal to feel this way. Parenting in a world of constant information and competing priorities is hard. And yet, what makes it harder is the unspoken expectation that we should somehow be able to do it all seamlessly, without faltering.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do it all at once. In fact, trying to will only keep the anxiety and rumination cycling. What if, instead, you gave yourself permission to slow down and choose one thing to focus on at a time?
As a therapist with training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and as someone who lives this juggling act every day, I’ve found that mindfulness-based approaches can make a huge difference in breaking out of the overwhelm.
Tools to Manage Overwhelm
Here are strategies that work for me:
Notice, without judgment, when you’re caught up in anxious thoughts or ruminating. This might feel like your mind spinning through a never-ending to-do list or obsessing over whether you’re doing “enough.” Pause and gently acknowledge where you are in that moment.
Take a breath. It doesn’t have to be a deep, dramatic inhale—just something that anchors you in the present moment.
Write down the three most important things. Not ten, not twenty—just three. What truly matters today? What will help you feel a sense of accomplishment or peace?
Do one thing at a time. This is the hardest step for me, but it’s the most transformative. Whether it’s answering an email or making your child’s lunch, focus on just that thing.
Trust the process and remind yourself that you’re doing great. Because you really, truly are.
Showing Up to the Messy Realities of Parenting
Parenting and working aren’t about being perfect—they’re about showing up. And some days, showing up means doing the bare minimum. Other days, it’s managing to juggle a little more. But every day, it’s about learning to give yourself the same compassion and grace you’d give someone you care about deeply.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed today, take a moment to pause. Breathe. Trust that you’re doing what you can, and that’s enough. And know that Wildflower is here for you too. This just might be your sign to reach out and get the support you deserve.
