Most of my friends are having families while also making dazzling careers. It feels like everyone around me is handling stress so much better than I am. My friends are going through divorces, dealing with car accidents, losing loved ones, and they seem to just keep going. Meanwhile, I feel like I'm shutting down over average daily tasks. I can’t cope with life changes and I’m pathetic at being an adult.
With this recent promotion at work, the workload is overwhelming. I come home exhausted and with no energy to take care of my children. I want to be there for them, to enjoy my time with them, but I simply can't find the mental space to relax. If not for my parents and daycare, I don’t know what I’d be doing now. The stress from work follows me home. I notice that I’m constantly irritated and shouting at my children for no reason, just because of some email from work or another morning request that I know will require me getting up half an hour earlier.
I worry that I'm failing as a mother and as a professional. How can I be a good role model for my children when I can't even handle the simplest of stresses without feeling like I'm falling apart? I've tried meditation, deep breathing, and all those quick stress-relief techniques, but nothing seems to work consistently. I still have so much anxiety that my stomach makes me sick every other day. I know I should be grateful for this promotion and everything it offers (flexibility, paid time off, etc.), but all I feel is being pressured and inadequate.
Anyone having similar issues? I'm open to suggestions or insights.
