What Does Superwoman Complex Look Like?

Struggling to find the energy you used to have? The Superwoman Complex can be a contributor to mom burnout, where a mom might feel like she's doing everything, but isn't able to fully recharge or feel fulfilled. It can lead to physical exhaustion, depression, or resentment, because no one, no matter how capable, can keep up with that kind of pace indefinitely.

We often feel we have to save everything and everyone from feeling the way we do when things get overwhelming. Most of the time, the only thing that needs saving is our sanity.

Here are some key traits to The Superwoman Complex:

1. Invisible Labor

   The emotional and logistical work of running a household (like keeping appointments, school projects, meal planning, etc) is often invisible and can feel overwhelming

2. Guilt

   We feel guilt throughout the day for so many things. Careers, hobbies, maintaining friendships, our marriage, maintaining a clean and safe home and finding personal time to just rest. This leaves us feeling like a failure because we can't give 100% all of the time.

3. Constant Sacrifice

   We often put our needs last, whether it's sleep, career, or maintaining our marriage, thinking that our kids needs must always come first. This can be emotionally and physically draining.

Superwoman Complex: The Words You Need But Don't Tell Yourself:

The truth is, that our marriage is just that, a marriage of two people who can share the burdens of daily life. Ask for help! This isn't a failure, its productive and leaves room for you to avoid burnout!

Chances are, your spouse doesn't think you are slacking in what you used to be able to do before you were a parent.

They see someone doing their best

We often put the pressure on ourselves to maintain a fast paced, productive life.

Our priorities, as a mom are different now. And that means splitting the 100% we used to give to 20 here, 40 there.

It won't ever be and shouldn't be perfect

If being hard on yourself was helpful, it would have worked now.

Give grace where needed and understand motherhood is a sisterhood.

You are not alone, we are here to support you in the muddy path of parenthood!

With Love,

Cristina