Moms exude unwavering confidence in their abilities, with a staggering 73% considering themselves the epitome of motherhood.
A recent survey conducted among 2,000 mothers reveals that eight out of ten moms firmly believe they serve as the driving force behind their families, acknowledging that their absence would leave the family adrift.
When it comes to their superhero-like qualities, moms exhibit unwavering confidence in their problem-solving skills (52%), nurturing nature (50%), multitasking abilities (41%), organization and time management prowess (36%), as well as effective communication (34%).
Conducted on behalf of Care.com, the survey, executed by OnePoll, discovered that an impressive 83% of moms seek support and advice from fellow mothers, finding it immensely valuable.
Furthermore, an additional 77% of moms expressed empowerment when witnessing other mothers openly sharing their struggles and experiences.
While seeking guidance on parenting and family-related matters, mothers often turn to family members (56%), their partners (52%), online parenting forums (46%), blogs (43%), and social media (36%).
Online platforms, especially social media, prove particularly helpful, as 71% of moms revealed that social media has enabled them to discover new parenting strategies and techniques. Moreover, 78% find online representations of motherhood relatable in various ways.
However, the excessive use of social media among moms also yields negative effects, with 66% engaging in comparisons with other parents online and 62% frequently doubting their own parenting decisions.
An overwhelming majority of eight in ten moms feel pressured to conform to the standards set by online parenting advice.
To inspire one another, moms suggest offering emotional support and encouragement (68%), candidly discussing the challenges of motherhood (62%), and sharing advice and tips (53%).
Maressa Brown, senior editor of Care.com, remarked, “While there is no universal parenting playbook, this research highlights moms’ desire for a sense of community and connection with other mothers. They are establishing a support network they can rely on to navigate the trials and celebrate the triumphs that accompany motherhood.”
The foremost challenge faced by moms is effectively managing their children’s educational activities (53%), closely followed by the lack of time for self-care (51%) and financial struggles (48%).
For those who prioritize self-care, 60% engage in hobbies or activities that bring them joy, 49% strive to acquire sufficient sleep and rest, and 42% seek solace and encouragement from fellow moms.
Nevertheless, a staggering seven in ten moms yearn for more personal time, with eight in ten agreeing that they would gladly seek assistance for family and household responsibilities if given the opportunity.
However, despite this strong desire, there remains a stigma surrounding the concept of hiring help, with 72% of moms acknowledging potential guilt and a sense of failure for accepting assistance.
Despite these challenges, moms keep themselves motivated through affirmations such as “I am a great mom, and my children adore me” (36%) and “I am doing my best, and that is sufficient” (26%).
TOP 5 SKILLS MOMS CONFIDENTLY POSSESS
- Problem-solving – 52%
- Nurturing – 50%
- Multitasking – 41%
- Organization and time management – 36%
- Communication – 34%
TOP CHALLENGES FACED BY MOMS
- Managing their child’s education and school-related activities – 53%
- Lack of time for self-care and personal interests – 51%
- Financial struggles and budgeting – 48%
- Navigating their child’s health and medical needs – 45%
- Dealing with behavioral or disciplinary issues with their child – 37%
- Balancing work and family responsibilities – 34%
BEST WAYS MOMS PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE
- Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring them joy – 60%
- Ensuring sufficient sleep and rest – 49%
- Seeking support and encouragement from other moms – 42%
- Regular exercise – 41%
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation – 40%
- Scheduling alone time regularly – 36%
Survey Methodology:
This random double-opt-in survey involved 2,000 mothers from the United States. Care.com commissioned the survey between March 24 and March 31, 2023. The study was carried out by OnePoll, a market research company whose team members are affiliated with the Market Research Society and hold corporate membership in the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).
