Do you often feel like you’re running on empty, constantly reacting to the nonstop demands of family life and quietly wishing you could just say, “I quit! Oh wait, I’m the mom!”? If you’re a cycle-breaking parent who wants to move from reactive survival mode into calm, intentional responses, this conversation is your guiding light.
In this episode of Rooted and Regulated, we chat with Michelle McVittie, a child life specialist, parenting coach, and author of the relatable and empowering book, I Quit. Oh Wait, I’m the Mom. With over 20 years of experience in pediatric medical and mental health settings, Michelle shares practical insights on navigating challenges like ADHD, anxiety, strong-willed children, and communication struggles. Her mission is helping moms reclaim joy and fulfillment in their motherhood journey.
Embrace the “Mom the Manager” Mindset
Michelle’s “Mom the Manager” concept started from a place many parents will recognize: feeling like you’re doing it all and feeling exhausted. But a manager doesn’t do everything alone. They delegate, organize, and bring the team together. This shift empowers moms to step out of the “default parent” role and lead their families with intention, proving that “things can change with the proper management.”
Michelle’s own transformation began when she prioritized her well-being, starting with a simple “stroller fit” class that connected mind and body. This experience highlighted a vital truth: you cannot pour from an empty cup. Supporting moms before they hit rock bottom is key and connection with others makes all the difference.
Master the Power of Pause
Parenting can feel overwhelming and reactive, but Michelle offers a simple, powerful tool to shift that: the pause. Taking 60 to 90 seconds to step back can be uncomfortable, especially when your child’s emotions run high.
- Allow Emotion, Don’t Fix: Let your child’s (and your own) feelings be without rushing to fix, punish, or explain them away.
- Respond, Don’t React: Use the pause to respond thoughtfully, which might mean saying nothing, or setting clear, kind boundaries.
- Shift Perspective: Remember, children are struggling with their own “little crisis,” not trying to give you a hard time, they don’t yet have the adult brain to process it all.
Reclaim Your Power & Ease Mom Guilt
Michelle’s book, I Quit. Oh Wait, I’m the Mom, speaks directly to the overwhelming pressure many parents feel to “do it all.” Her core message is clear: take your power back.
She encourages parents to:
- Prepare children for independence instead of being their constant playmate or activity scheduler
- Focus on quality over quantity – meaningful moments beat endless supervision
- Value other relationships – grandparents, aunts, friends, and community members enrich your child’s world and your own
This perspective lightens mom guilt and invites parents to have more of themselves back. Michelle reminds us that accumulated stress can cause us to “pop off” and underscores the importance of not struggling in silence. You matter, you’re not alone, and you deserve happiness.
Build Your Parenting Community & Ask for Help
Michelle created her business to provide parents with a supportive place to turn because she knows how isolating parenting can feel, especially for professionals who feel they “should know better.” She stresses:
- Community is Key: Lean on family, friends, or swap childcare with other parents. Asking for help is strength, not weakness.
- Protect Emotional Boundaries: Many parents wrestle with blurred boundaries. Simple mindset shifts and tools can safeguard your well-being.
- Accessible Resources: From Facebook groups to free guides, courses, and one-on-one coaching, help is available even when you’re deep in the trenches.
- Solo Parenting Support: Without a partner, the same principles of self-reflection and seeking outside help apply, connection and care remain vital.
Find Michelle at momthemanager.ca, and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. She offers free calls, guides, and programs designed to meet parents where they are.
Ready to uncover what’s really behind your parenting overwhelm and step into more calm and joy?
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