Get Rid of Mom Guilt: 5 Tips Every Business Mom Needs for Better Self-Care

Being a mom and running a business is like juggling all the balls at once. Some are rubber and you can afford to drop them now and then, and others are glass and can’t ever be dropped (i.e., feeding your kids and keeping them alive). It’s a crazy balancing act for anyone, but especially a business mom.

If you’re nodding, it’s because you’ve been there. And if you’re carrying around a bit of mom guilt, or feeling like you’re falling short somewhere, you’re not alone. It’s time we have an open, honest conversation – or maybe a pep talk – about the challenges of balancing motherhood, business, and self-care. If you need a little pep talk to take care of yourself without the guilt, read on.

5 Tips to Help You Take Better Care of Yourself (Because You Deserve It!)

1. Recognize When It’s Time to Prioritize You

I get it: As a CEO Mom, it’s hard to carve out big blocks of time for yourself. With kids, work, and daily interruptions, any big goal you might have often gets pushed aside when everyone else constantly needs you. For me personally, I have to pause my work every time a call from the school flashes on my phone. It is what it is, and I’ve accepted that I don’t often get huge chunks of time to work.

The reality is that you can’t always put yourself first, and that’s okay. But when you do get the chance, even if it’s a brief moment, use it to do something that energizes you and lights you up. Maybe that’s work – and that’s okay too!

2. Drop the Guilt Over Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t make you selfish. As business moms, we usually worry about ourselves last. Here’s an example: My son was diagnosed with ADHD, and I was immediately willing to get him the support he needed – without hesitation or guilt. I cleared my scheduled for the entire day to get the appointments he need. But lately, I’ve felt like I personally might have ADHD… and I’m having trouble justifying taking the time off and paying for it for myself!

If you’re willing to clear your day to get your child the care they need, try to take the same approach for yourself (trying to take my own advice here!). The healthier and more balanced you are, the better you can show up for your family and business. Your kids need a happy, healthy mom!

3. Model Self-Care for Your Kids

Sometimes, taking time for yourself is the best lesson you can give your kids. When you carve out time for something you love, you’re showing your kids that they don’t have to give up their own dreams and interests for other people. You’re teaching them that it’s okay to prioritize self-care. And that’s a lesson they need!

4. Embrace the Chaos and Let Go of Perfection

I struggle with perfectionism. Anyone else out there? If you’re a business mom, you probably do, too. But life as a CEO Mom is rarely ever perfect. You try to balance everything, but the demands keep piling on.

Instead of shooting for perfection, try to find small ways to care for yourself in the midst of the beautiful chaos that is being a business mom. It’s okay if some days don’t go according to plan. Accepting that life is sometimes messy and unpredictable can free you from the relentless need to have it all figured out.

5. Remember: You’re Not Alone in This

So many moms out there are right in the trenches with you. They’re wondering if they have ADHD, feeling stretched thin, and dealing with the same juggle of work, kids, and self-care. It’s okay to seek support, whether it’s through therapy, medication, or just reaching out to a friend who gets it.

Make the appointments for yourself that you need. It isn’t just for you – it’s for everyone in your life. When you’re calmer, happier, and more balanced, everyone around you benefits, too. You’re not alone, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with needing a little help to be your best self.

Give Yourself Grace

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, to take a break, or to try something new to feel a bit more balanced. So the next time you feel that guilt creeping in, remind yourself that you’re doing an incredible job. Take a breath, find a moment for yourself, and remember that by prioritizing self-care, you’re not just taking care of yourself – you’re taking care of everyone who depends on you.

Let go of the guilt, and give yourself the grace you’d give your best friend. You deserve it, CEO Mom.

Wanting more real, raw conversations with other business moms? Tune in to Episode 102 of the CEO Moms Building Wealth Podcast with Emily Reagan. Emily and I talk about how we both feel like we might have ADHD, how we navigate mom guilt, and our thoughts on marketing.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to be tax advice. This is not an all-inclusive list of business advice. Different rules may apply to each individual taxpayer’s specific situation. Please consult with your accountant. May contain affiliate links.