Stressed-out Working Mom

Stressed-out Working Mom
Katherine Smith
2/27/2014
Updated:
4/24/2016

Dear Kathy,

I have a husband, 2 young kids, and a demanding full-time job. I barely sleep trying to get everything done every day and the dishes and laundry pile up, anyway. Even with my husband pitching in, it never seems to all get done.

I am  stressed-out and I feel like a failure. What else can I do other than giving up sleep altogether??

“Bonnie”

Dear Bonnie,

You are not a failure, just over-worked and under-rested. Anyone burdened with two full-time jobs would feel the same way (working f/t and parenting young children while running a household).

First of all, get more sleep. You'll feel better physically, be in a better mood, and become more productive at work and at home. Secondly, think about using a crockpot to make easy one pot meals that you serve on paper plates, at least until the children are old enough to help you with the dishes.

As for laundry, think about having someone come in for a few hours a week to help you out. It’s worth the few dollars to have an extra pair of hands. Either that or consider sending your laundry out to be washed, dried, and folded for you.

All work and no play is a dreary existence, Bonnie. Use your creativity to lighten the load and make some time for fun. Trust me, your family would rather spend time enjoying you than a tidy home!

All my best,

Kathy

 

 

is a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a gifted divorce mediator in NYC. She is a former high school English teacher and college counselor with a passion for enhancing the lives of others. Additionally, Katherine has extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, family systems, and group therapy. Readers can contact her at [email protected].
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