We need rest. It’s how God designed us. We are not omnipotent. We don’t have unlimited energy and ability. Sleep is a gift. It’s a necessity. We know this.

But sometimes we don’t get enough sleep.

As new Moms, we know what it is to be tired. Nights can be long. Days can be full. And minds, hearts, and bodies can grow weary. Our lives are rich and full. Blessings abound, and yet so do the demands on our time and energy.

We can feel spent.

We can feel tired.

And being tired is really, really hard.

So what do we do? How do we handle feeling exhausted but still wanting to show up for those we love?

Can I share some thoughts? Here are some tips in no particular order. I hope they are an encouragement.

10 Tips For the Tired Mom

1. Keep perspective.

Remember the big picture. Remember what you’re working towards and into what you’re investing.

Rather than fixating on the difficulty you’re facing, take a step back. Imagine you and your family in 10 or 20 years. Think about the blessing of your kids and spouse and all the things you have to look forward to. Remember that the sleepless nights and busy days are worth it.

One day you’ll again get a full night’s sleep. One day you’ll have more time to do that hobby. This season is actually really short in the grand scheme of things, and the future investment you’re making is worth the present weariness. I promise.

2. Don’t take things too seriously.

Relax, and don’t overthink.

When you’re tired, everything feels like a much bigger deal than it actually is. Worries are more worrisome. Burdens seem heavier. Fears become more intimidating. We can more quickly lose sight of reality.

Remember this, and don’t let yourself get carried away by your emotions. Tiredness is real. Your feelings are valid. But they aren’t always true.

Try to lighten up, and know that today might not be the day for soul-searching.

3. Nap when you can.

Get some sleep. When that newborn baby is sleeping, you should close your eyes too. Even if you don’t actually sleep, you should at least try to zone out for a while.

Naptime is usually not the time for housecleaning or working out, especially when you have a new baby. I strongly believe this.

You need sleep, Mama. Take it when you can.

4. Drink water.

Stay hydrated. You might be exhausted, but if you can drink some water, you’ll feel so much better. Get a big waterbottle and sip on it throughout the day. It’ll clear your head, give you some energy, and help you feel refreshed.

5. Go outside.

Get some fresh air. There’s something about being in God’s creation that will renew your mind and maybe even your body. Stand in the sunshine. Take in some deep breaths and look at the beautiful world God made.

6. Get ready for the day.

Even if you feel tired, even if you’re not going anywhere, get dressed. Make your bed. Wash your face. If you wear makeup, put it on. Straighten or curl your hair, or just put it in a pony tail.

If you look put together, you’ll probably feel put together.

7. Ask for help.

Let others help you.

You don’t have to be a hero. Let your husband hold the baby or stir the soup. Let your Mom or mother-in-law watch your toddler.

If there’s a way someone could help you, reach out. Chances are they would love to pitch in.

8. Let yourself cry.

When you have a moment to yourself or are alone with a friend, let yourself cry. Express your weariness. Let that tension out. Don’t let it build up inside.

You’ll feel so much lighter.

9. Tell God what’s on your mind.

Pray. Give yourself a minute to take a deep breath and pour out your heart to God.

Ask Him to love through you and be patient through you. Ask Him to protect you from sinning in your tiredness. Pray that He’d equip you for everything you need for the day.

Your prayer might sound something like this.

Help me get more sleep, but if not, help me be a good and godly wife and mom in the midst of my exhaustion.

10. Don’t feel guilty about being tired.

What’s worse than being tired? Being tired and feeling bad about it.

Being tired just goes with the season of life you’re in.

So don’t compare to others. Cancel plans when you need, and remember you’re not a failure for being worn out.

Yes, try to find good rhythms and routines that mitigate the tiredness. But also, don’t beat yourself for feeling exhausted.

It’s going to be okay.

Be encouraged, Mama. God is with you. He sees how you pour yourself out for your kids and love them endlessly. He also knows you’re exhausted and sometimes don’t handle it well.

Go to Him. Rest in Him, even when you can’t physically rest quite yet. He will carry you. He loves you.

Isaiah 40:11: He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.

FAQ about Dealing With Tiredness

1. Does feeling tired ever get easier?

No and yes. On the one hand, feeling tired will probably always be hard, especially when you can’t take time to rest. On the other hand, however, you do learn to deal with tiredness better over time. You learn what your body and mind can do. You get stretched and grow more resilient. I think you also learn not to stress about sleep as much. You and your kids will sleep eventually. There is usually no need to panic.

2. Speaking of tiredness, what is your coffee of choice?

I usually just drink black coffee or with a little milk or cream. If I was going to a coffee shop and ordering something special, I might go for something seasonal like a pumpkin spice or chestnut praline latte.