From Burnout to Balance
A Solo Mom’s Guide to Thriving
Let’s keep it real—being a solo mom is a full-time job in itself. Add a career, a side hustle, or even just trying to have a little “me time,” and whew chile, the juggle is real! Some days, it feels like we’re out here running on caffeine and sheer willpower. But listen, we are not meant to just survive—we’re meant to thrive.
If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or like work-life balance is just a cute concept that doesn’t apply to you, I got you. Let’s talk about real ways to reclaim your time, your peace, and your joy—without dropping the ball on your responsibilities.
1. Define What Balance Looks Like for YOU
Mama, forget the Pinterest-perfect idea of balance. Your version might not look like anyone else’s—and that’s okay! Maybe it’s making sure you have dinner with your kids every night, maybe it’s clocking out at 5 p.m. sharp, or maybe it’s setting aside Sundays just for yourself—and God. Whatever balance looks like in your life, claim it and protect it.
2. Set Boundaries Like Your Peace Depends on It (Because It Does!)
Boundaries at work? Essential. Boundaries at home? Non-negotiable. That means:
Work stays at work. If you’re off the clock, be off the clock.
No more “supermom” syndrome. You don’t have to say yes to everything.
Teach your kids that “mom time” is a thing. Whether it’s 30 minutes with your book or a bath without interruptions, you are allowed to have space for yourself.
3. Delegate and Automate Like a Boss
Listen, you do not have to do it all. If your kids are old enough, give them chores. If your budget allows, hire help—even if it’s just grocery delivery. Use apps and systems to take the mental load off (automate bills, schedule pickups, set reminders for EVERYTHING). Work smarter, not harder.
4. Find Your Work Rhythm
Not all of us work 9-5, and that’s fine! As a police officer, I work a rotating overnight shift. So whether you’re on a strict schedule or working multiple gigs, find a routine that keeps you sane. That might mean:
Batch working: Handling emails only at certain times instead of all day.
Time blocking: Setting specific hours for work, parenting, and YOU.
Energy matching: Doing your hardest tasks when you have the most energy (and saving the easy stuff for when you don’t).
5. Protect Your “Me Time” Like It’s a Paycheck
I’ll say it again for the mamas in the back: You. Deserve. Rest. Periodt. Even if it’s just 15 minutes to sip tea, watch a show, or take a deep breath, carve out space for yourself every single day. Your kids need a happy, whole mama—not a burnt-out, stressed-out one.
6. Build a Support System (Even If It’s Just One Person)
Whether it’s your best friend, a coworker, an online community, or your mama, lean on your people. You don’t have to do this alone. Find a support system that lifts you up, because you need people who pour into you just as much as you pour into everyone else.
7. Let Go of the Guilt, Sis
LET IT GO! LET IT GOOOOO! Not every day will be perfectly balanced, and that’s okay. Some days, you’ll crush it at work but barely manage dinner. Other days, you’ll kill it at mom duties but forget to respond to an email. That doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Give yourself grace and remember that you’re doing an incredible job.
Final Word: You Deserve to Thrive
Work-life balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about making it work for YOU. And you’re already doing it, boo. You’re showing up, handling business, and making magic happen every single day. So take a deep breath, pat yourself on the back, and keep thriving.
Love & light,
Tiera Nicole