Raising Resilience Daily

Let’s talk about mom guilt. Not the kind that comes from forgetting picture day or serving microwaved chicken nuggets for dinner (again). I’m talking about the guilt that creeps in when you say no to plans, skip a get-together, or don’t RSVP to the group text because your brain is fried and your calendar looks like a game of Tetris.

Here’s the truth:
Being free does not mean being available.
And we need to normalize that.

The Invisible Load

Right now, my life is a rotating schedule of:

• Kids’ sports practices and games
• Fostering their friendships (playdates, birthday parties, emotional debriefs)
• Maintaining our own friendships and family relationships
• Cooking meals that fuel our bodies
• Cleaning the house (or at least pretending to)
• Working full-time and building a career I care deeply about

So when someone says, “You’re free Tuesday night, right?”
I want to respond with:

“Technically yes. But emotionally, mentally, and logistically? Absolutely not.”

The Guilt Loop

I feel guilty for not showing up.
I feel guilty for wanting quiet.
I feel guilty for saying no; even when I know it’s the right answer.

But here’s what I’m learning:
Saying no isn’t selfish. It’s strategic.
It’s how I protect my energy, my family, and my sanity.

Reframing the Narrative

We need to stop equating availability with worthiness.
Just because I’m not booked on the calendar doesn’t mean I’m not booked in life.
Sometimes, I need that time to:

• Sit in silence
• Prep meals
• Watch my kids play without rushing
• Be a human, not a hostess

And that’s okay.

What I’m Teaching My Kids (and Myself)

I want my kids to know that boundaries are healthy.
That rest is productive.
That showing up for yourself is just as important as showing up for others.

So, if you’re a mom feeling guilty for not doing all the things, I see you.
You’re not lazy. You’re not flaky. You’re just full; in the best, most human way.

Let’s normalize saying:

“I’m free, but I’m not available.”
And let’s do it without guilt.

Raising leaders, chasing goals, and occasionally losing my mind.