Hey, Love!
Let’s talk about guilt. It’s sneaky, isn’t it? Sometimes it’s subtle, like a whisper in the back of your mind, and other times it’s loud and consuming, leaving you feeling stuck. For me, guilt feels like being completely immobilized… mentally running through everything I think I should be doing, but unable to move forward because I’m too busy beating myself up over it. It’s devastating. But here’s the truth… guilt doesn’t have to hold us back forever.
What Guilt Holding You Back Feels Like
When guilt starts creeping in, it can feel heavy, like trying to move through quicksand. For me, it often leads to a cycle of self-criticism, leaving me stuck and unable to take the next step. Guilt has a way of tricking us into believing we’re failing, even when we’re not. And when it takes over, it can isolate us, straining our relationships and leaving us feeling disconnected from the people we love most.
How to Recognize Guilt in Your Life
If you’ve ever found yourself feeling stuck, replaying the “should-haves” in your mind, or withdrawing from those closest to you, guilt might be at the root. Here are some signs that guilt could be holding you back:
- Paralysis: You know what needs to be done but feel completely unable to start.
- Self-Criticism: A constant loop of negative thoughts, questioning if you’re enough.
- Isolation: Pulling away from others, even when you crave connection.
- Loss of Joy: Feeling like you can’t enjoy the moment because you’re too focused on what you think you should be doing instead.
How to Break Free
Here’s what’s helped me when guilt creeps in:
- Name It for What It Is: When I notice guilt, I call it out as a lie. Then, I counter it with truth… real proof from my life that shows me I’m not failing.
- Take One Small Step: Even a tiny action, like putting on my favorite cozy sweats or taking a moment with a calming essential oil, reminds me to pause and reset.
- Focus on Connection: Guilt often wants to pull me away from my family, but choosing to step back in… whether it’s a cuddle on the couch or a chat over coffee… grounds me in love instead of doubt.
- Give Yourself Grace: Remember, being a good mom isn’t about doing everything perfectly… it’s about showing up as best as you can.
Encouragement for Moms Feeling Stuck
If you’re feeling stuck in guilt today, here’s what I want you to know… you are your own worst critic. The things you think you’re failing at? They’re likely the things your loved ones don’t even notice… Let go of the idea that you need to have it all together all the time. Instead, focus on the love and effort you pour into each day.
Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re neglecting others… it means you’re creating space to show up with more love and strength. Whether that’s starting your day with a grounding moment, using tools to streamline your routines, or simply pausing to breathe, these small choices add up to big transformations.
Guilt doesn’t define you, Love. You’ve got this, and I’m right here cheering you on.
