Struggling with Mum Guilt? Here’s How to Overcome It
If you’re a mum, you’ve likely encountered that sinking feeling of not doing enough.
Welcome to mum guilt, a familiar companion for many parents who are constantly juggling responsibilities and striving to meet impossible standards. The good news? You’re not alone, and there are ways to manage and even overcome these feelings.
Let’s talk about how you can tackle mum guilt head-on with a little help from your support system, and how nannying agencies can support you on this journey.
Seven top tips for overcoming mum guilt
1. Recognise That You’re Only Human
Mum guilt often comes from the unrealistic expectations we set for ourselves. Whether it’s balancing work, household responsibilities, and parenting, or simply striving to be the “perfect” mum, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling short. But here’s the thing: perfection doesn’t exist.
Acknowledging that you’re doing your best—and that it’s okay to have off days—is the first step to letting go of guilt. Your child doesn’t need a perfect mum, just a happy and loving one. Sometimes, it’s worth asking yourself, "Would I expect this much from someone else?" The answer is likely to be no!
2. Ask for Help
You don’t have to carry the weight of parenting alone. However, too often, we feel like asking for help is a sign of failure. But rest assured: it’s not. Reaching out for help is one of the smartest things you can do for both yourself and your family.
Whether it’s asking your partner to take on more responsibilities, hiring a housekeeper to ease the household load, or considering a nanny through trusted nannying agencies, having a support system is crucial. Hummingbird Home Staff specialise in finding reliable, professional help for your home, so you can have an extra pair of hands to give you more time for you to focus on your family—and yourself.
3. Prioritise Self-Care
It’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but it’s essential. When you're constantly running on empty, everything can feel overwhelming, and it’s hard to be the mum you want to be when you’re exhausted.
Self-care doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. It could be as simple as a 15-minute walk, a cup of tea in silence, or taking a bath after the kids are in bed. The key is to recharge in a way that works for you. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and your family needs you to be at your best. Nannying agencies can help lighten your load, giving you the time to step away and recharge.
4. Silence the Comparison Trap
It’s true what they say: comparison truly is the thief of all joy, and social media especially can be a breeding ground for it. It’s easy to scroll through Instagram and feel like other mums have it all together. But remember, social media is a highlight reel, not reality. Every mum has struggles, even if they don’t show it.
Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own unique journey. What works for one family may not work for yours, and that’s okay. Celebrate your own wins, no matter how small they may seem. Whether it’s getting the kids out the door on time or finally catching up on laundry, every little victory counts. Plus, with a bit of help from nannying agencies, you can ease some of those daily burdens, giving you more time to savour the moments that really matter.
5. Let Go of the “Supermum” Myth
The idea that you need to be a supermum who does it all is nothing more than a myth. Trying to live up to an impossible ideal only adds to your guilt and stress. It’s okay to have days where things aren’t perfect—where laundry piles up, toys are scattered around, and dinner comes from a takeaway menu. What matters most is that your children feel loved, safe, and supported.
Be kind to yourself and set realistic expectations. It’s perfectly fine to get extra help when needed, whether that’s a housekeeper or a nanny. Nannying agencies are there to make your life easier, helping you find someone who fits seamlessly into your family routine and meets your childcare needs, whether you’re looking for someone to live in or just looking for part-time help.
6. Communicate with Your Partner
If you’re raising your children with a partner, open and honest communication is key to keeping the guilt and stress at bay. Share your feelings, your struggles, and your wins. Sharing the mental and physical load of parenting can make all the difference.
Together, you can work as a team—whether that’s splitting chores, taking turns with the kids, or simply making sure each of you gets some much-needed downtime. And if the workload still feels like too much, this is where nannying agencies can come in handy. Hiring a nanny through a trusted service can provide that extra set of hands you both need to manage your household more easily.
7. Remember: Happy Mum, Happy Kids
At the end of the day, the most important thing you can give your children is a happy, healthy version of yourself. When you’re feeling good—both physically and mentally—you can be more present, patient, and engaged with your children.
If leaning on nannying agencies or bringing in some household help gives you the space to breathe and recharge, then it’s not just a benefit for you—it’s a benefit for your whole family. Let go of the guilt and embrace the fact that sometimes, the best thing you can do for your children is to take care of yourself.
Find household help with Hummingbird Home Staff
Mum guilt is something many of us experience, but it doesn’t have to rule your life. By being kind to yourself, setting realistic expectations, and not hesitating to ask for help when you need it, you can keep those feelings of guilt at bay. Focus on what truly matters—being present for your family in a way that feels good for both you and them.
And if you’re feeling like there’s simply too much to handle, remember that nannying agencies like Hummingbird Home Staff are here to support you. Whether you need help with childcare, housekeeping, or a bit of both, you don’t have to go it alone. The right support can make all the difference in creating a happy, balanced home life for you and your family.
Get in touch with our team today to start your search and banish the mum guilt for good!
