Being a Mom is a Superpower—Even When You’re Running on Empty

Motherhood is a journey filled with love, joy, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. But let’s be real—it’s also exhausting.

Recently, I saw a reels video where a mother shared that she never feels tired caring for her children because she's so passionate about everything in her life that it gives her energy. While I respect that, it made me reflect on how different each mother’s experience can be. 

The truth is, feeling exhausted doesn’t mean we lack passion or love for our children. Passion and exhaustion can absolutely coexist. Taking care of little humans who rely on us for everything is a lot. 

Even before becoming moms, managing our own lives—school, work, and daily responsibilities—was tiring. That’s why we often turned to our parents, especially our moms, for help and guidance.

Now, as moms ourselves, we pour so much of our energy into making sure our kids feel safe, loved, and cared for. And that takes a toll.

Admitting we’re tired doesn’t mean we’re failing.

It just means we’re human. Loving our children doesn’t erase the physical and emotional demands of motherhood. And that’s okay.

Feeling exhausted doesn’t make us less dedicated—it simply shows how much we give, day in and day out.

I know this firsthand. Many of my mom friends and I have experienced a huge shift from how we used to be before having kids. When we meet up, it’s rarely about looking polished with perfect makeup and cute outfits anymore.

Instead, comfort comes first—for the sake of our mental well-being. And honestly? That’s okay too. Prioritizing what makes us feel good in the midst of everything we juggle is just another way we show up for ourselves and our families.

Because of this constant exhaustion, I know just how hard it is to keep everything on track. Some days, I find myself working in front of my laptop, barely conscious from the sheer fatigue of juggling it all.

Motherhood is relentless, and no matter how much we love what we do, exhaustion is inevitable.

Yet, I truly love my work. It keeps me grounded and reminds me that I am more than just a mother. It gives me purpose, fulfillment, and a connection to my own identity beyond parenthood. 

But loving what I do doesn’t mean I don’t get tired. Passion and exhaustion aren’t opposites—they exist side by side, and that’s okay.

Every mother is incredible in her own way. Our strength isn’t measured by how energetic or cheerful we appear. It’s in the early mornings when we wake up before everyone else to get things ready for the day.

It’s in the unseen moments—packing lunches, soothing tears, managing countless responsibilities—so that our families can function smoothly.

 It’s in the quiet sacrifices we make, the patience we practice, and the way we keep going, even when we’re running on empty. That’s why I truly believe every single mother is amazing.

 The ability to nurture, to love unconditionally, and to keep showing up despite the exhaustion? That’s a kind of superpower. A strength that comes from deep within, even when we feel like we have nothing left to give.

So to every mom out there: whether you’re full of energy or barely getting through the day, whether you find joy in every moment or are struggling to keep up, please know—you are doing an incredible job. 

Your love, your dedication, and your perseverance are what truly matter. And that is worth celebrating, every single day. You are enough, just as you are.

By Fathi Aidiya Farisa