Finding fulfilment on the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood

Feeling unsatisfied with motherhood is a familiar experience for a lot of women. The demands of juggling work, parenting and our own needs can leave us feeling stretched to our limits, so it's understandable to question if there's more to this journey than mere survival sometimes.

First, let's just take a moment to acknowledge that being a mother is hard work. Balancing childcare and work responsibilities, feeling unsupported at home or in the workplace, or having expectations that don't quite match your reality can be tough.

It's important to recognise that these feelings are normal, that you're doing the best you can, and that feeling unsatisfied doesn't have to be a permanent state.

The journey may not always be easy, but finding satisfaction and discovering more joy in motherhood is within your reach.

“Discontent is the nagging of the imagination. Discontent is evidence that your imagination has not given up on you. It is still pressing, swelling, trying to get your attention by whispering, Not this.” - Glennon Doyle

If you're looking to start feeling more fulfilled in motherhood, here are some things to consider:

1. Be kind to yourself and manage expectations

Evaluate your expectations and make sure they're realistic based on the resources you have available. Embrace your unique journey and understand that each mother's experience is different.

2. Clarify your values

Reflect on your values and why you make the parenting choices you do. Knowing your values can help you feel more confident in your decisions and find fulfilment through living in alignment with them.

3. Evaluate your boundaries

Look at your boundaries and make sure they are healthy and well-defined. Learn to say "no" when necessary to protect your well-being and to create space to prioritise some time for yourself.

4. Recalibrate the load

Identify things that can be downgraded, delegated, delayed, or deleted to ease your mental and physical load. Go back to your values to help you prioritise and simplify where possible.

5. Gratitude and Joy

Even on the hardest of days, when you're exhausted and feeling pulled in a million directions, take a moment to reflect on the moments of joy, gratitude, and pride. No matter how small, they can help you shift your perspective and experience greater satisfaction.

Remember, feeling unsatisfied with motherhood doesn't make you a failure and it’s not a sign that things will always feel this way. Use it as an opportunity for growth, self-reflection, and to make positive changes towards a more fulfilling experience.