86. When Anxiety Looks Like Control in Motherhood

In this episode of Experience Motherhood, I’m talking about a side of mom anxiety that doesn’t always get named: the kind that looks responsible, capable, and “on top of everything.” I share why managing anxiety isn’t about getting rid of it or becoming a calmer, less sensitive version of yourself, but about learning how to relate to it in a way that doesn’t cost you who you are.I reflect on a season in my own life when I could manage everyone else’s emotions with ease, yet felt quietly disconnected from myself. From the outside, things looked fine. Inside, I was constantly bracing, anticipating the next need, and holding everything together. That experience opened my eyes to how often anxiety in motherhood shows up as control, vigilance, and over-functioning, and why it’s so easy to confuse anxiety with competence.In this episode, I gently unpack why control deserves compassion, how anxiety often acts as a strategy rather than a flaw, and a few small but meaningful shifts that can help you soften without letting everything fall apart. We explore what it means to notice anxiety without letting it lead, and how staying connected to yourself inside of motherhood doesn’t require a drastic change, just awareness, permission, and trust.If you’re a mom who carries the mental load, keeps things running, and feels both capable and exhausted, this episode is for you. You don’t have to become less driven to feel calmer. You can be responsible and rested, present and imperfect, and you’re not doing motherhood wrong.I'd love to hear your thoughts! Send me a message :)Experience Motherhood more!Follow over on Instagram: @experiencemotherhoodSTAY CONNECTED THROUGH EMAILSign up for the Experience Motherhood Newsletter: https://experiencemotherhood.myflodesk.com/kac05b818mGet access to other free guidesWebsite: https://www.experiencemotherhood.com-->Take one minute to subscribe, rate and review the podcast! Your support is incredibly meaningful!Support the ShowA small donation of $5, $10 or more is an amazing way to keep this podcast going and support me! Thank you so much for listening!Until next time. . . Go Experience Motherhood!Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only. In no way is this therapy or clinical advice.