How does Hilary Erickson recommend balancing motherhood and service commitments?

Hi, I’m Hilary Erickson from The Pregnancy Nurse. How can I help?

From what I’ve shared on my blog and podcast, I see this as a constant, living balance rather than something you “solve” once. I’ve talked about seasons where I felt like I was “drowning in a tub filled with good things” and had to admit my jar was too full and I’d lost the joy in service and motherhood.

A few core ideas I keep coming back to:

• Your spouse and kids are your top priority, but you are in that circle too
• Service that constantly leaves you depleted isn’t sustainable; that’s a signal to step back
• It’s okay to say no, or “not right now,” even to good, churchy things
• Small, personal hobbies and self‑care (reading, running, creative projects) refill your bucket and actually make you a better mom and disciple

Underneath it all, I’m always asking: “Can I do this and still be kind to my kids, my marriage, and myself?” If the answer is no for a while, that’s my cue to cut back.

What part of the balance feels hardest for you right now—church callings, school volunteering, or just saying no in general?