17. Homemaker Burnout
When every day starts to feel the same.
“If life is an endless loop of dirty dishes and laundry, then that means life is a never ending loop of home cooked meals and comfy, clean clothes” -Unknown
Like with any other type of job or career path, the vocation of being a homemaker can bring seasons of burnout. This could even be on top of or because of other demands such as homeschooling, having a new baby, having several small children, or many other life circumstances.
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I recently went though my first real bout of burnout. But it wasn’t because my workload was too much or that I’m running myself ragged. I manage to squeeze in time to write, workout, see friends, and practice the guitar- just because I want to.
For me personally, my burnout as a homemaker was a result of me not bringing in the necessary change and creativity in my routines, schedules and attitudes sooner.
Prior to becoming a mother, I had all the time in the world to clean and cook. So much time, that I did all the cleaning and laundry within a few short hours, and made homemade everything just for the fun of it. I didn’t meal plan very much, and even added some extra vacuuming in throughout the week (this season was quite short- I had recently quit my job, was a newlywed, and got pregnant not too long after).
That all changed once my baby was born. All my waking hours, energy and time was dedicated to taking care of this small human being whom I love more than life.
After the month I took off ( thanks to the meals I made in advance and froze, pre planned meal train, not worrying about laundry or deep cleaning) to rest, bond and recover during postpartum, I was eager to get back to work. I couldn’t wait to clean our bathroom and vacuum again (I know, I’m weird).
But my eagerness didn’t match my time and energy as a new mother. It was an instant reality check. I knew that I needed more structure and a change to my routines that matched my new limited time and energy, and would serve my family better.
Structure & Predictability = Peace Of Mind And Freedom To Be Creative
I came up with a basic framework for meal planning that helped me not have to think when writing the grocery list: meatless Monday, taco Tuesday, burgers Wednesday, wild card Thursday, pizza Friday, surprise Saturday, and salmon Sunday. I wouldn’t use the exact same recipes or meals every single week, but I operated within that meal prep guideline that I made for myself. It streamlined my prep and I didn’t forget what was on the menu.
But at some point, this structure wasn’t so necessary for me anymore. I became more competent as a mother and a homemaker. My baby was getting older, I was getting more sleep, and I had more wiggle room to change things up. I started cooking new recipes, didn’t rely on my meal planning framework as much, and even called audibles on dinner plans despite having a meal planned already. It was lovely. It brought creativity and beauty in the mundane.
Continue reading below after Danielle Recommends.
Danielle Recommends: Anthropologie Christmas Decor & Laundry Essentials
garland / Capri Blue jar candles / tree tapered candles/ flameless pillar candles / gold light up tree
I know it’s only October, but before you know it, we are going to be in full swing for Christmas. Shopping for Christmas decor before Thanksgiving is always a good rule of thumb. Update your Christmas collection today with some festive finds (some even under $50) at Anthropologie.
🔗Shop the list and more here 🔗
Let’s talk about laundry essentials and nontoxic laundry swaps. I like to keep things simple with drying racks, dryer balls, and scrubbers for stains. Ever since becoming a mother, it’s been important to me to make nontoxic swaps with my detergent and laundry products as to not irritate the delicate skin of my little one. However, finding nontoxic laundry products that actually work and clean well was quite the journey. Thankfully, I was recommended Truly Free and Earthley’s eco friendly laundry detergent.