Three Things Working Moms Need To Hear (Even from AI)

I love slinging hoagies on the East Coast. Though growing up on the West Coast, I didn’t even use the word hoagie. Seriously—I like what I do. For years, I was invested in early childhood education. This is more fun in this season of life (and honestly pays better). Right now at work, we’re in the thick of Hoagie Fest at Wawa, which is our busiest season of the year. There’s something energizing about the hustle, the rhythm of the rush, and the satisfaction of a sandwich well-made.

But as much as I enjoy working, let’s be honest—there are challenges that come with being a working mom. By the way, stop in for your $6 Hoagie Fest hoagies, it’s a trip of self-care that I think is worth it.

By the way, you should probably know the difference between a hoagie, a sub, and a grinder.

The Tension of Working Moms

There’s the tension of being away from home more than I’d like, but also the conviction, guilt (some emotion) that comes when I am home, wondering if I’m doing enough to support my family as costs rise and everything gets more expensive. It feels like no matter what I choose, something gets shortchanged. Sound familiar? It’s my story (you can learn more about me).

And while social media has a lot to say about this tension (spoiler: stay out of the comments), the reality is that we are living in a moment unlike any other. Most mothers—regardless of their personal or spiritual convictions—need to work in this economy. It’s not what all of us want or would choose, but it is a necessity. Many of us are juggling two or more jobs just to make ends meet.

The balance we’re trying to keep is fragile as we try to live our lives, raise our kids, and collaborate in supporting our families.

What Do Working Moms Need To Hear?

In the middle of all that, I decided to ask ChatGPT a simple question: “What three things would you tell working moms?” It is a silly conversation. It is a question I asked out of curiosity, more than the expectation of a serious answer. However, I got something, somewhat significant, or worthy of some reflection.

So, before you read it, what do you think it said to me?

Got it? Well, here is what an impersonal, non-human AI had to say. Please know, I am sure this thing is programmed and trained to give us all custom answers, and you may get something completely different, but this is what I got. I’m posting it here. No, this is not a gospel truth, but as a conversation starter.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t half bad:

1. You’re doing sacred work—both at home and beyond. Whether you’re in an office, on a job site, leading a team, or caregiving from home, your work matters. Providing for your family, modeling resilience, and contributing to the world is a holy calling. Don’t diminish the worth of what you do—every diaper changed, deadline met, or late-night laundry load is part of your offering.

2. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Release the pressure to perfect every role. Your kids don’t need a flawless mom—they need a present one. Your coworkers don’t need a superhero—they need someone real. You’re allowed to ask for help, set boundaries, and say no without guilt. Sometimes “good enough” really is faithful, wise, and sustainable.

3. Rest is not a reward for exhaustion—it’s a rhythm of grace. God didn’t design us to run endlessly. The Sabbath is for you, too. Rest restores your soul, and it reminds your children and colleagues that you are human. You are more than what you produce. Breathe. Sleep. Laugh. Let your soul catch up with your body.

That is what ChatGPT said. So, what do you think?

• Do you agree?
• What would you add?
• What would you change, remove, or say differently?

What three things would you tell working moms?

Let’s talk.

(But remember: stay out of the comments section chaos—real conversations happen in safe spaces.)