I’m Not Unmotivated, I’m a Mom in February

Real talk:

You are not lazy. You are not failing. You’re not even “off your game.” You’re simply a mom in February.

February is the month where motivation goes to die. The vision board is in the corner. The planner is open, and half the items are missing. Every motivational quote about “new beginnings” feels vaguely offensive. If you’re wondering where your energy vanished in the past three weeks, welcome!

From November until January, moms are fueled by sheer adrenaline. Holidays, parties, family gatherings, presents, you name it, we’re running on instinct, caffeine, and obligation.

But something strange happens in February. The chaos quiets, and suddenly we feel something, and that feeling is tired. Not “take a nap, and you’re fine” tired. “It’s been 84 years,” tired.

Let’s not even begin to talk about the cold. Actually, yes, let’s talk about the cold. It’s freezing, truly; there’s been 16 inches of snow on the ground for weeks, and there isn’t enough sunlight. February fog is real.

But what if February is for maintenance? (And by maintenance, I mean, literally just keeping the balls in the air).

February for me is now just reminding myself that if I finished school, fed everyone something, and kept the house from spontaneously erupting into flames, I’ve done enough.

I am lowering the bar. Now’s your chance to repeat meals (bonus if they come together in less than 20 minutes). Cancel all your nonessential plans. Wear your favorite cozy sweater on repeat and choose rest.

There is good news. The sun will begin setting after 5 p.m. You’ll get your spark back. February will be gone before you know it. But please, until then, stop blaming yourself for something that’s seasonal.

You’re not unmotivated. You’re not behind. You’re just a mom in February. And you’re doing an amazing job.