Hey moms (and dads)!
Today, I want to share something deeply personal. It’s also something so many people go through: the struggle of balancing marriage and parenthood.
For me, that journey ended in divorce.
If you’re here because you’re feeling the weight of it all, know this: you’re not alone.
Let’s be honest. Keeping a relationship strong when you have little ones is hard. Parenting is like running a marathon. Every. Single. Day.
It doesn’t leave much energy for anything else.
For me, the challenges piled up quickly. Sleepless nights. Endless responsibilities. A demanding career that took whatever energy I had left.
In the middle of all that, my marriage was something I couldn’t nurture anymore.
Having kids is a blessing. But let’s not sugarcoat it: they also magnify any cracks in your relationship.
For us, the biggest issue was a lack of true partnership.
I found myself being everything to everyone. I was the full-time caregiver. The career woman. The household manager.
It felt like I was carrying the world on my shoulders. Over time, that weight broke me.
When the load isn’t shared, balance disappears. Resentment creeps in.
And when you’re already physically and mentally exhausted? That resentment becomes impossible to fight.
What I Wish I’d Known Sooner
Looking back, there are things I wish we had done differently.
I’m sharing them here because maybe they’ll help you:
- Prioritize Your Partnership
Life with kids will always be chaotic. But make time for each other. Even 30 minutes a day to really connect can make a difference. - Communicate Honestly
Don’t bottle things up. Share your feelings and struggles with your partner. Speak up before frustration turns into something bigger. - Divide and Conquer
You can’t do it all. Build a system where both of you share parenting and household responsibilities. True partnership is about shared effort. - Seek Help When You Need It
Therapy. Parenting workshops. A trusted friend. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Sometimes, an outside perspective is all you need to see things more clearly.
Where I Am Now
For me, it was too late to save my marriage.
The lack of partnership, combined with life’s relentless demands, left no room to rebuild. That truth is heartbreaking.
But now, I’m focused on the next chapter.
My priority is my kids. I want them to feel safe and loved, even as their world changes.
I’m also working on co-parenting with my ex. It’s not easy, but our kids deserve the best we can give them.
This is just the start.
You’ll see more posts from me on this topic. I’ll share tips on talking to kids about divorce. On creating a healthy co-parenting dynamic. And everything in between.
If you’re going through this right now, or if you’ve been through it, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s support each other. No one should go through this alone.
With love and hopefulness,
Shely
