The Working Mother Guilt – How to Cope

Working mother guilt is the biggest issues a mother has to deal with. As a working mother there are lots of benefits, such as feeling a sense of contribution, retaining your identity, or supporting your family. Still, a feeling of guilt is inevitable for most working mothers, especially if your children are very young. Here are some tips to help you work through the rough patches:

1. Trust your gut feeling that your choice was right for you and your family.

In recent years, there has been a bit of media frenzy over working mothers. Although some sources would have you believe that working mothers and their children are depressed, anxious and stressed, recent studies have shown otherwise. In fact, there are numerous studies on both sides of the issue, both for and against mothers working outside the home. Read research and commentary on both sides of the issue and make the choice that’s right for you and your family. No one else is just like you, and no one else can make the choice for you. You know yourself, your family dynamic and your kids.

It’s also important to be open to re-evaluate your choices as your professional and family roles continue to grow and evolve. With so many parents in the work force, this time in history holds unprecedented opportunities to craft a working arrangement that can work for you and for your kids. If your working mother guilt has become too much to bear, it might be time to take another look at all the various possibilities.

2. Make a list of all the advantages that working provides you with.

Create awareness of your motivation for workimg, it can be easier to get through those days when you may feel like you may have made the wrong choice. Your reasons will be very personal. Some mothers work out of financial need. Others feel they wouldn’t make good stay at home mothers. Still others want to set a good example of an independent working woman. Keep your list handy and pull it out anytime you feel that working mother guilt creeping up. Most of all list the benefits it gives, you, your children and others around you. If your children benefit by you working, you provide the best you can give them. So, where does this leave the guilt then?

3. Ignore negative comments and criticism of people who made other choices.

Whether it’s your mother-in-law, a stay-at-home friend, or an online message board, make the choice to avoid arguments with people who want to make you feel guilty about your personal choices. Know in your heart that your decision was based on what is best for you and what is best for your family. If someone presses you, just say that you are doing what works for you and leave it at that. At the same time, try not to be judgmental of mothers who stay home. We are all in this world together and each of us has a different path to walk. Be non-judgmental and open to other people’s choices. This may help you feel less defensive about your own.

4. Make quality time for your child and give them full attention.

One of the best parts of being a working mother is that the time you spend together during the weekend and evenings can be extra special. Plan special activities and really be in the motherent with your child. Sometimes this time together is all that you need to refresh your outlook and take pride in your choice.