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How to Deal with Mom Guilt: When your child cries and you have to leave for a meeting, or when you're at the office and miss a school function, a strange pang of guilt arises in your heart. But do you know that this guilt is destroying both your productivity and your peace of mind? Most women juggling motherhood and a demanding job feel stuck. But did you know that it's quite easy to break free from this cycle of "mom guilt" and live a happier working life while also being a better mother?

1. Let go of the urge to be a "superwoman," accept being human.
An image of a mother has been created who does everything perfectly; she keeps the house spotless, gives top-notch presentations at the office, and packs a new dish in her child's lunchbox every day. The truth is, there's no such thing as a "perfect mother."

Advice: Recognize your limitations. If you're tired one day and only manage to make khichdi (a simple rice and lentil dish) for dinner, there's nothing wrong with that. Trying to fit yourself into the "superwoman" mold is only exhausting you. Set your priorities and accept that you can only give your 100% to one thing at a time.

2. Understand the importance of "quality time," not "quantity."
Working mothers often feel that because they can't be with their children 24/7, they are falling short. But psychology says that children don't care how many hours you spend with them, but rather how that time is spent.

Advice: When you come home from the office, dedicate the first 15-20 minutes entirely to your child. Put away your phone and leave your office worries behind. Play with them, listen to them. After being away all day, these 15 minutes of undivided attention are far more valuable to your child than several hours of mere presence. It gives your child a sense of security and love, and it also reduces your guilt.

3. Self-care is not selfishness, it's a necessity.
You can't pour from an empty cup. Similarly, if you are mentally and physically exhausted, you won't be able to keep your child happy. Working mothers often consider taking time for themselves as "selfishness," which is the biggest misconception.

Advice: Set aside at least 30 minutes each day for your hobbies, sleep, or simply to enjoy a cup of tea in peace. When you are happy and calm, you will be able to handle the challenges of both home and office much better. Remember, a happy mother is the first condition for a happy home.

What you are doing is commendable!
Being a working mother is not a compulsion or a mistake; it's an inspiration for your child. You are teaching them to work hard, be independent, and pursue their dreams. The next time you feel guilty, look in the mirror and tell yourself, "I am doing my best, and that's enough." Respect your work and your motherhood journey. You are not just an employee or just a mother; you are a warrior who is managing two worlds simultaneously.

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