Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. Balancing the responsibilities of raising children, managing a household, and taking care of oneself is a daily challenge. I deeply admire women who manage to nurse babies, prepare meals, clean, and still look radiant. You are the real MVPs, and I salute you.
Let me share something personal.
On the very first day of this year, my husband and I stepped out to buy frozen food. We left the house in a rush—no baths, just brushed our teeth. At the shop, another car pulled up. A couple stepped out with their baby, all looking well-groomed and fresh, as if they had just stepped out of the bathroom and into the day. I looked at myself and silently thanked God I didn’t bring the kids with me. We had all left the house without bathing.
In that moment, I realized something: taking care of oneself as a mother isn’t just an act of vanity—it’s a gift. A precious one.
Most days, I’m up by 5 a.m. By the time I’ve cooked, cleaned, sorted laundry, and organized the house, it’s already late morning—and I’m drained. On days like that, bathing feels like a mountain to climb. But over time, I’ve started to remind myself: “You deserve to feel refreshed.” Sometimes, I push myself to go ahead and take that bath anyway. And almost always, I feel better afterward. My body relaxes, and my mind feels clearer.
That’s the thing—only a healthy body and sound mind can truly care for others.
As women, especially mothers, we carry so much—physically, emotionally, and mentally. This constant juggling act, often referred to as the “mental load,” encompasses the invisible and unrecognized work of managing various aspects of family life, from remembering appointments to coordinating schedules and providing emotional support. This mental load can lead to significant stress, anxiety, and even depression if left unaddressed.
That’s why it’s important to intentionally care for our own well-being. A lot is placed on our shoulders, and if we don’t tend to our own health, everything else suffers.
Never underestimate the power of a mentally stable woman. When your mind is in a good place, you approach challenges with strength and grace. But when you’re mentally exhausted, everything feels harder. Even small tasks become mountains. When stress builds up, it affects not just your mind, but your bones, your body, your spirit.
Support—whether from a spouse, family, or community—plays a huge role. When you’re doing it all without help or encouragement, the burden becomes heavier. That’s when burnout sets in, and your joy in motherhood starts to fade.
So here’s my message to every mother reading this: Take care of your mind. Prioritize your rest. Honor your body. And give yourself grace.
Motherhood is sacred, yes. But so is your wellness.
You matter too.
My name is Omolola Oyedele (@mediagirlie.lola on socials)—a mother, a wife, a woman, and your biggest cheerleader on this journey. Motherhood isn’t always easy, but you’re never alone. I’ll be here, rooting for you always. Until next time, mama!
Category: Motherhood, Parenting, Finding You in Marriage
QUIZ TIME - Reflecting on the Mental Load of Motherhood and Self-Care
- When was the last time you took a moment solely for yourself without any interruptions?
- Do you feel that the mental responsibilities of managing your household (if partnered) are equally shared?
- How do you typically respond when feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks?
Take your time figuring out the answers and we would love to read your answers! So, send in your answers RIGHT HERE and if you have more questions, feel free to send them our way! This will always be a No judgement zone for you Mama.
