I Am Pooped

Being a parent is often wonderful. It's rewarding when you see you child(ren) develop, be successful in their studies, career and in life overall. However, please do not be deceived. Parenting is also overwhelming, draining, exhausting and challenging. Anyone who says different is not being honest with you or themselves. It is my responsibility to teach them to love and respect themselves as well as others. It is my responsibility to support them in all areas of life.

As their mom, I ensure and endure a lot.  I ensure all their needs and wants are met. I endure their problems, heartache and disappointment when things do not go according to their plan. I experience their ups, downs, success, failures, happiness and sadness. Along with them, I feel and experience all they go through. I strive to meet the demands of parenting. My teenager (the youngest) loves to come up with these mind-boggling requests. She is not concerned that every minute of my day is accounted for with work, meetings, her pick up and drop offs. 

NyAsia does not comprehend my days, weeks and yes, some months are planned and booked with meal preps, their activities, parent meetings, work meetings, training's, work projects, their friends birthday gatherings, and whatever me time I can squeeze on the calendar. With my own daily expectations and requirements, it is impossible to do everything my girls expect me to do. Unfortunately, my responsibilities are an afterthought as they (mainly my teenager) volunteers my services for the next big school or dance event.

There are times when I feel I have nothing left to give. I am drained, emotionally, mentally, physically and financially. Although my girls have NEVER stated or showed they are unappreciative of my efforts. There are times when I feel no matter what I do, it’s not enough. There have been times when I thought and said things like "I'm Done "or "I'm Over It". There have been times when I tune out or shut down. There have been times when I wanted to disappear for a few days to regroup, recharge and refuel. I feel like a bad mom when have those thoughts and feelings. However, after speaking to a few other mothers, I know that I am not the only one who feels this way. I also know this feeling is natural. 

We as parents are always on the go for our children, family, friends, etc. Everyone and everything come before us. There is no time for you to relax, recharge or refuel. So, what do you think will happen? We become overwhelmed, exhausted and burned out. To be a productive parent we must take time regroup and recharge or we are no good to anyone or ourselves. We must take time for ourselves. Doing so is good for our emotional and mental well-being.  

Have you felt overwhelmed and burned out?

What are some of the things you have done to regroup, recharge and refuel to continue being a productive parent?