How I Balance Work and Single Motherhood Without Losing Myself Because You Can Thrive, Not Just Survive

Being a single mom isn’t for the faint of heart. Add a full-time job into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for exhaustion, stress, and self-doubt—unless you learn how to manage both without losing you. I’m Crestine, and like many other solo parents out there, I’ve been navigating the rollercoaster of single motherhood while working hard to build a future for my daughter, Amalia, and myself. It hasn’t been easy, but over time, I’ve learned a few life-changing lessons that helped me not just survive, but thrive. This is my story—and maybe, just maybe, it’s yours too.

I Prioritize Ruthlessly (And Let Go of the Guilt)

Let’s be real: I can’t do everything. There was a time I tried to juggle work, parenting, house chores, side hustles, and still show up socially—only to end up physically drained and emotionally absent. I realized I had to make choices that protected my peace.

Now, I ask myself daily: What truly matters today? Sometimes, that means letting the laundry wait so I can spend a few extra minutes snuggling with Amalia. Other days, it means saying no to non-urgent favors so I can recharge.

I’ve learned to let go of the guilt that often comes with putting myself on the list. Because when I take care of myself, I become a better mom and a more productive worker.

 I Create Sacred Time for Me (Even if It’s Just 10 Minutes)

When you’re a single mom, your identity outside motherhood can easily fade. I’ve had moments where I didn’t recognize myself—just the tired woman in the mirror going through the motions. That was my wake-up call.

Now, I make it a priority to carve out even a small pocket of time each day just for me. Whether it’s journaling, drinking coffee in silence, reading a devotional, or writing a blog post for Moments by Amalia—these little rituals remind me that I’m still Crestine, not just “Mama.”

You don’t need hours at the spa to reconnect with yourself. Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet moment and the intention to pause.

I Build a Support System (Even If It’s Not Perfect)

Single motherhood can feel isolating, but I’ve learned that asking for help doesn’t make me weak—it makes me wise. My support system isn’t perfect or huge, but it’s made up of people who genuinely care: a friend who listens, a neighbor who watches Amalia when I’m working late, and yes, even online communities of moms who just get it.

Support can also come in the form of systems: meal prepping on weekends, scheduling ahead, or using apps to manage finances and appointments. These things may seem small, but they lift such a huge mental load.

No one’s meant to carry everything alone. And you don’t have to.

Balancing work and single motherhood isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what matters most and protecting your sense of self in the process. I’ve learned that when I honor my own needs, I show up more fully for Amalia and for the life I’m trying to build. There will be days when it feels overwhelming, but with the right mindset and boundaries, it’s absolutely possible to create a life that feels whole—even without a traditional support system.

If you’re a single mom trying to balance it all, I see you. You are not alone, and you are more capable than you think. Share this post with a fellow mom who needs a reminder that she’s doing better than she realizes. And if you’d like more personal stories and honest reflections from one single mom to another, subscribe to Moments by Amalia and let’s walk this journey together—one real, beautiful moment at a time.