Hi Mama,
Let me say something that might surprise you — but I think deep down, you’ll feel the truth in it:
You love your partner. You love your children.
It’s just that… you’re tired.
You’re overwhelmed. You haven’t slept well. You might be running on snacks, coffee, and leftovers from your toddler’s plate. It's a survival-mode menu, designed to keep you going, not to help you thrive. And when your body and mind are drained, even the people you love the most can feel too loud, too demanding, too much.
But here’s something I tried that changed everything — and I want to share it with you.
One day, I did a little experiment. I made sure I was well-rested. I ate a good breakfast. I moved my body. I gave myself what I needed first. Then I stepped into the same messy day with the same partner and the same child.
And I didn’t get angry.
Nothing outside had changed.
I had changed.
In that moment, I was back to my natural state. Not the “perfect mom” state. Just the me that feels healthy and whole — the me that can love freely, without resentment.
So here’s something to remember next time you feel triggered, frustrated, or ready to snap:
You don’t need to change your partner.
You don’t need to change your children.
You just need to come back to yourself.
And coming back to yourself doesn’t mean pushing harder. It means being softer. It’s about treating yourself with the same kindness you give to everyone else. Start with the simple things: listen to your body’s need for real rest, eat food that truly fuels you, and find a moment to move in a way that feels good. When you treat these basics as acts of self-love instead of chores, you’ll find your patience naturally returns.
Because in your natural state, love flows more easily. Patience isn’t forced. And peace doesn’t feel so far away.
You’re not broken. You’re just tired.
Take care of you, and the rest often softens on its own.
With care,
Sikieng
💬 Parting Thoughts: What's one small way you can come back to yourself' this week? I'd love to hear in the comments!
Such a great idea—thank you for sharing your parenting style and thoughts.
I'm not a parent myself, but I’ll definitely share this with my sister. I'm also the proud auntie of my little niece, who’s turning two soon!
This is a beautiful reminder for all parents:
You are not broken—you’re just tired.
Tired from giving your all, from managing everything that life throws at you.
Take a moment to breathe, to be kind to yourself, and to remember that your child sees you as their world. How you treat yourself teaches them how to value themselves too.
You are truly my favorite author—I love reading your articles.
Wishing you a lovely day ahead!
Wise words Sikieng