Working parent guilt: What no one tells you

Reflective Parenting by Curious Neuron

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with Daisy Dowling

Balancing work and parenting feels impossible sometimes, doesn’t it? Between deadlines, meetings, and the constant demands at home, many working parents feel overwhelmed, guilty, and stretched too thin.

In this episode, Dr. Cindy Hovington talks with Daisy Dowling, author of Work Parent, about redefining what work-life balance really means — and why aiming for a perfect “straight line” isn’t the goal. Instead, Daisy shares practical “hacks” to help working parents manage stress, set realistic expectations, and take meaningful moments for rest and self-care.

They dive into how to build your personal and professional “brand,” why keeping an “already done” list can lower overwhelm, and how small choices today can lead to a happier future — both at work and at home.

This episode is full of relatable insights and actionable strategies to help working parents feel less frazzled and more grounded.

🔑 What You’ll Hear:

• Why work-life balance isn’t a fixed state — it’s more like riding waves
• How to define your professional and parenting “brands” to empower your identity
• The Zeigarnik Effect & the power of an “already done” list to combat overwhelm and guilt
• Why rest and recovery are essential — even in small daily moments
• Tips to reframe self-doubt and reduce anxiety about work performance
  
  

Mentioned in This Episode:
📖 Work Parent by Daisy Dowling

→ A go-to guide for working parents struggling with the dual challenges of careers & kids.

Scientific Source:

Burnout and Mental Health in Working Parents: Risk Factors and Practice Implications

Read our blog post:

https://curiousneuron.com/2025/06/08/parental-burnout-is-real-what-every-working-parent-needs-to-know/

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🧠 Free Resources:

• FREE Workbook: Why Do I Feel Triggered by My Child?
• FREE Kids Activity: Help! My Emotions Are Confusing

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