The Day Lisa Felt Like a ‘Bad Mom’

Lisa sat in her car, gripping the steering wheel, trying to hold back tears. It had been a long day. Work deadlines, school runs, and a messy house had left her completely drained.

But what really broke her was the look on her five-year-old’s face when she told him she couldn’t play because she had work to do.

"Mommy, you never have time for me."

That sentence echoed in her mind all evening. Was she failing as a mom? Was she too focused on work? Was she doing enough?

That night, she lay in bed, scrolling through social media, seeing other moms baking cookies, doing arts and crafts, and laughing with their kids. And there she was—exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering if she was doing it all wrong.

Does Lisa’s story sound familiar? If you’ve ever felt like you’re not doing enough as a mom, you’re not alone. Mom guilt is real—but it doesn’t have to define your parenting journey. Here’s how you can overcome it and embrace motherhood with confidence and grace.

1. Understand Where Mom Guilt Comes From

Mom guilt creeps in from different sources, including:

• Unrealistic Expectations – Trying to be the “perfect mom” who balances everything flawlessly

• Comparison – Watching other moms online and feeling like you don’t measure up.

• Societal Pressure – Feeling judged for working, staying home, parenting style, or even how you feed your child.

But here’s the truth: No mom has it all figured out. The best you can do is love your child, do your best, and extend yourself the same grace you’d give a friend.

➡ Action Step: When guilt creeps in, pause and ask yourself: “Am I truly failing, or am I being too hard on myself?”

2. God Chose You to Be Their Mom for a Reason

One evening, Lisa’s mom called her. She could tell Lisa was stressed and simply said, “Sweetheart, you’re the best mom for that little boy. God made no mistake.”

That was exactly what she needed to hear.

God doesn’t expect you to be perfect—He expects you to be present. If He gave you this child, He knew you had exactly what it takes to raise them.

➡ Action Step: When self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself: “God chose me for this role. I am equipped for this journey.”

3. Stop Comparing Your Behind-the-Scenes to Someone’s Highlight Reel

Scrolling through Instagram, Lisa saw a mom who always seemed to have it together—matching outfits, homemade meals, endless fun activities. Lisa, on the other hand, was just trying to get through the day.

What she didn’t see? That mom had her own struggles, too.

Social media only shows part of the story. You don’t see the tears, the exhaustion, or the moments of doubt.

➡ Action Step: Unfollow accounts that make you feel like you’re not enough. Follow those that uplift and remind you that motherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about love.

4. Self-Care is NOT Selfish

Lisa used to feel guilty for wanting time alone. But then she realized something: when she was exhausted, she had little patience or energy for her son.

She started taking 30 minutes a day for herself—reading, praying, or just sitting in silence.

And guess what? She became a better mom because of it.

You cannot pour from an empty cup. When you take care of yourself, you have more to give your child.

➡ Action Step: Schedule time just for you this week. Even if it’s 10 minutes of quiet time, take it. You deserve it.

5. Pray Through the Guilt

Lisa started a new habit—whenever she felt overwhelmed, she’d take a moment to pray.

“Lord, help me see myself the way You see me. Remind me that I am enough, even on the hard days.”

Motherhood was never meant to be done alone. God is with you in every step of this journey.

Scripture to Hold On To:
 "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." – Proverbs 22:6

➡ Action Step: Pray over your child daily, even in simple ways. Speak life over them and over yourself.

Your Prayers Shape Their Future

As a mother, your love, prayers, and presence are what truly shape your child’s life. Even on the hard days, God sees your effort, and it is enough.

Let go of guilt and embrace the joy, challenges, and blessings of motherhood with confidence.

What’s one way you’ve overcome mom guilt? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!

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FAQs: Overcoming Mom Guilt

1. How do I deal with guilt over being a working mom?
 Remind yourself that providing for your child is an act of love. Focus on quality time rather than quantity, and be intentional in the moments you have together.

2. What if I feel guilty for taking time for myself?
 You deserve rest! Taking care of yourself helps you show up as the best version of yourself for your child.

3. How can I stop comparing myself to other moms?
 Remind yourself that every child and every mom is different. Focus on your journey, not someone else’s.