Feeling Stuck in Your 9-5 as a Mom? Here’s What to Do Before You Quit

If you're a mom feeling stuck in your 9-5, you're not alone.

Lately, I've been waking up with a heaviness I can't shake. My job feels draining, the passion is fading, and the thought of doing this for years to come makes me want to crawl under the covers and stay there. Honestly? I want to quit.

But I’m not.

At least not yet.

If you're thinking the same, I want to encourage you. This blog post isn’t about giving up, it’s about creating a realistic exit plan — one that protects your peace, your paycheck, and your purpose.

Why Moms Feel Stuck in Their 9-5 Jobs

For many of us, a traditional job feels like survival. It pays the bills, offers some security, and helps us support our families. But over time, it can also become a place of burnout, especially when you're juggling motherhood, housework, and the emotional load of caring for everyone else.

Sometimes you’re not just tired from work. You’re tired of the version of life that work has forced you into.

That’s why so many mothers dream of quitting. But before you quit your job as a mom, let’s talk about how to plan the transition wisely.

5 Steps to Create a Mom Exit Plan

1. Don’t Quit on a Bad Day

When you’re dealing with burnout from work, it’s easy to make emotional decisions. If you want to leave your job, make that choice from a calm, clear head. Not after a terrible meeting or a rough daycare drop-off.

2. Save for a 3 to 6-month cushion

One of the smartest ways to leave your job is with peace of mind. Build a financial cushion that covers your basic expenses for at least three to six months. This gives you room to breathe while figuring out your next step.

3. Start a Side Hustle

A growing number of moms are exploring side hustles to create additional income and flexibility. Whether it’s writing, creating digital products, offering freelance services, or selling journals (like I do), find something that lights you up and can support your goals.

4. Use Your Paid Time Off

Working mom self-care isn't just bubble baths. It's knowing when to take a break. Take your vacation days. Use your sick days. Those days aren’t only for your kids or medical emergencies. They’re for you, too.

5. Ask: Do I Want to Quit… or Do I Just Need Rest?

Sometimes what feels like the need to leave is really the need to rest. Take a weekend away, turn off your phone, and check in with yourself. What do you really need right now?

Where I Am in My Journey

I still show up to my 9-5, but not because I want to stay there forever. I show up because I’m building my exit plan.

I'm saving. I'm creating. I’m using my paid time off. And I’m learning that waiting with wisdom still counts as progress.

In the meantime, I’m leaning into the things that remind me of who I am outside of work. Writing. Creating. Serving other moms through Efitmi. Because purpose gives me strength while I wait.

If you’re in a season like this…

I want to invite you to read The Lazy Mom’s Guide to Motherhood, especially if your 9-5 is draining you and you’re searching for peace and clarity. Until July 31st, you can get a FREE digital copy! Or if you'd rather skip through the physical pages, you can get a paperback copy shipped to you for free if you live in the U.S. or the Caribbean.

Grab your copy here and permit yourself to build a life that truly works for you.