The Day I Overthought a Simple Instagram Caption for 45 Minutes 🤯
Raise your hand if you've been there. You're about to post something—a simple thought, a cute pic of your baby’s first step, or even a recipe you’ve just nailed—and BAM. Suddenly, you’re in the depths of your mind, spiraling with questions like: “What if it sounds ridiculous? What if no one likes it? Should I add a cute emoji? Maybe I should just post a picture of my coffee instead…”
Yep, that was me, in the middle of an Instagram caption while my toddler was using my leg as a jungle gym. Iconic, right?
But here's what I've realized through too many days of trying to juggle motherhood, life, and a new business: Overthinking is fear dressed up as a big ol' mess. And that fear? It’s a sneaky liar.
If you’ve ever thought about starting something new, tackling your mom to-do list, or even just posting something on social media, but your brain’s like “Let’s obsess over 82 different things first,” then you’re in the right place, Mama. ❤️
🧠 Why We Overthink (Spoiler: It’s Not Because We’re Weak)
Let's be real—overthinking is exhausting, especially when you’re already running on fumes after a long night of toddler tantrums or endless laundry piles. But, why do we do it?
1. Perfectionism Paralysis
You want to be a perfect mom, a perfect businesswoman, a perfect friend, a perfect...everything. The problem is, perfection is a trap. It paralyzes you from moving forward. That “I have to have everything figured out before I begin” mindset? It’s holding you back from the messy, beautiful progress that comes from trying.
2. Fear of Judgment
This one hits hard, doesn’t it? You start thinking: “What will my friends, family, or followers think of me?” Guess what? They’re too busy worrying about their own lives to even notice what you’re doing. 😅 So, take a deep breath and let go of that judgmental voice in your head. Your mom squad is probably just as tired as you!
3. Past Trauma or Failure
Your brain wants to protect you, especially after feeling the sting of failure. But guess what? Growth requires risk, and it’s worth every uncomfortable second of it. That business idea? It’s worth trying. That self-care routine? It’ll help you thrive. The only thing truly unsafe is staying stuck.
4. Control Freak Energy
You want to guarantee success before taking a step, but here's the kicker: Life doesn’t come with guarantees. And if it did, we’d miss out on the beauty of growth. Trust me—embrace the chaos, and you’ll find your way.
✅ How to Stop Overthinking and Take Action – The Mama Way
Alright, let’s get practical. Here’s how we can tackle this overthinking beast and actually start getting things done while juggling babies, work, and everything in between.
✍️ 1. Do a Brain Dump (Mama Style)
Grab a piece of paper (or your phone if you're in the middle of a snack break 😅) and jot down everything bouncing around in your brain. The worries, the ideas, the grocery list, the new business ideas—everything. It’s like hitting the reset button. When your mind feels cluttered, get it out of your head and onto paper.
⏳ 2. Set a Timer (Just Like Nap Time)
As moms, we’re used to tight schedules (hello, nap time!). Give yourself a timer—five minutes to make a decision, 10 minutes to take action. Trust me, setting a time limit makes a big difference. Less overthinking, more doing.
🧩 3. Break It Down (One Step at a Time)
Don’t try to map out the whole week’s worth of meals and business ideas in one sitting. Just tackle the next step. One baby step at a time—because clarity comes when you start moving, not when you’re stuck thinking about moving.
💥 4. Let It Be Messy
Let’s be honest, Mama—life is messy, so why do we expect everything we do to be perfect? Your morning routine, your business ideas, your Instagram feed—it's okay to let it be messy. Just take action. Perfectionism? Nah. Let’s go for progress instead. 🙌
🧘♀️ 5. Regulate Your Nervous System (Even If You Have 5 Minutes)
The stress is real. The to-do lists are endless. But before you let your brain overheat, take a moment. Breathe deeply. Walk around. Do some quick stretches while your little one plays on the floor. When you calm your body, your mind will follow.
🙌 6. Celebrate the Tiny Wins (You Deserve It)
Did you post something on Instagram? Celebrate it. Did you knock one item off your to-do list? Give yourself a high five! Every step forward is a win, and those small victories will fuel your momentum. You’re doing amazing, Mama. 🎉
Final Thoughts: Think Less, Do More – Even If It’s Wobbly
Overthinking steals our time, our energy, and—let's be honest—our sanity. And you’re here to build your dreams, not talk yourself out of them.
Taking action is scary. It might not feel perfect. But that’s okay. Momentum brings clarity, and clarity builds confidence. So let’s stop overanalyzing and start moving forward—even if it’s a little wobbly.
Because, Mama, one messy action is worth more than a million perfect intentions.