The Overwhelm Cure23 Sep 2025

38: Breaking Free from Over-Responsibility

The Case for Taking Breaks

I'm heading out on a week-long journey, training leaders across the province in resilience and Dare to Lead skills.

While I love my work, this trip also means I'll be missing my daughter's first national competition of the season, and a wave of mom-guilt is washing over me.

While my family is my top priority, my work schedule is planned months in advance, and sometimes my kids' schedules are a bit last-minute.

My husband is taking her instead, and I know they'll do great, but the guilt and fear of missing out (FOMO) are still there under the surface.

This situation reminds me of how often we, as parents, feel guilty when we take a break from our responsibilities.

Sure, I could have rescheduled or canceled one of my commitments to be there, but sometimes it's good for our kids to have time to bond and learn to navigate things without me.

Today's episode is the permission you may have needed to take the trip, put your learning first, and trust that your kids are well-taken care of.

Takeaways from this episode:

Mom-Guilt and FOMO are common: It's normal to feel guilty or experience fear of missing out when taking a break from responsibilities, especially as parents and leaders.
Prioritizing ourselves is essential; investing in our mental health and wellness by taking breaks is important for our overall well-being and the health of our personal and professional relationships.
Challenging the "do it all" mindset: We often believe we're the glue holding everything together, leading to over-responsibility and neglecting our own needs.
Kids benefit from rested parents: Coming back from a work trip or a kid-free vacation feeling rested and recharged can make you a happier and more effective parent, ultimately benefiting your children.
Diverse support networks for our kids: When our kids spend time with other trusted adults, it helps them develop their social networks, shows them the extent of their support, and offers fresh perspectives.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and A Personal Story
00:58 Guilt & FOMO from Taking Breaks
03:21 The Importance of Independent Time
04:42 Investing in Your Well-Being
06:36 The Myth of Parental Sacrifice
11:32 The Benefits of Time with Trusted Adults
12:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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