"No matter what walk of life you've come from, there are so many things that unify parents in their struggles but also in their aspirations, too." -Kate Middleton
The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton has made her podcasting debut on Giovanna Fletcher's podcast 'Happy Mum, Happy Baby'.
On the well-known podcast, the Duchess speaks openly about her life as a wife and mother and revealed that she too suffers from mum guilt "all the time", just like the rest of us.
Speaking to Giovanna Fletcher, she said:
Even this morning, George and Charlotte were like, "mummy, how could you possibly not be dropping us off at school this morning?"
She continued by saying that as a mum, you are always
"Questioning your own judgement and decisions - I think that actually sparks from the moments you have a baby in your tummy."
It's safe to say that this is something all parents can all relate to. Whether you have to drop the kids off at their grandparents for work or leave them with a friend so you can run a few errands, you may be grateful for the support, but it can be extremely challenging to be unable to be around your kids 100% of the time.
However, Kate went on to tell Giovanna that a "wise man" once gave her advice on this which she wished to share with other parents who may be struggling with the guilt and overwhelming responsibility of being a parent.
"A very wise man did say to me that we are more like animals than we think we are - we need people around us and the more people you have around your children who are safe and loving and caring, the better."
It was a real weight off my shoulders to know it was not totally my responsibility to do everything because we all have good days and bad days, and if you can dilute that with others who on that particular day aren't struggling, it can make such a difference to your kids."
So, if you're having an off day, don't be afraid to reach out for help. Having other loving people around to support your children's wellbeing can only benefit them.
And if you're going through a particularly difficult bout of mum guilt today, know that it's okay and all mums go through it in some shape or form. You're doing your best, and you're not alone in your feelings.
As Kate so perfectly said, "No matter what walk of life you've come from, there are so many things that unify parents in their struggles but also in their aspirations, too."
