Overwhelmed Mom: Quiet the Chaos, Mind What Matters, and Enjoy Your Life Again

by Jamie Erickson

Is there a happy medium between Pinterest perfection and chaos culture?

Moms hear a chorus of competing messages. One minute, we’re told we can do it all, and the next, we’re encouraged to be “real women” who live as “Hot Mess Mombies.” Both anthems—perfection and chaos—leave us feeling burdened. 

In Overwhelmed Mom, Jamie Erickson shows us how to push back against the weariness epidemic that plagues so many women on both ends of the spectrum. Through biblical principles and flexible solutions, she’ll help us learn to adjust our homes, schedules, and attitudes so that we may experience right-now relief and forward movement in common stress areas.

The Try-Hard gospel of the world assures us that if we just got up earlier, stayed up later, and micromanaged every waking moment, we can outrun our overwhelm. But no amount of running on empty will ever help us catch up. Reshaping a harried life is long-game, soul work.

Overwhelmed Mom equips women to edit their lives with intention, find purpose and vision in the work God has called them to, and create daily rhythms that will help them steward their days with delight, not drudgery. Each chapter ends with questions and prompts for readers to consider as they unmoor themselves from the relentless To-do list that plagues them. 

We don’t have to keep living as overwhelmed moms—Jamie invites us to experience freedom and enjoy the gift of motherhood.

Genres: Parenting, Christian, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2025

About the author

JAMIE ERICKSON is a former classroom teacher turned homeschool mom. When she’s not curating memories, hoarding vintage books, or playing ringmaster to a circus of her own making, Jamie can be found encouraging and equipping a growing tribe of mothers all across the globe on the Mom to Mom podcast, through her blog The Unlikely Homeschool, and at national conferences.

In addition to writing and speaking, Jamie loves talking faith and family over a hot latte, collecting calories around a table full of friends, and taking grueling hikes with her husband Dain and their five kids (because alas, calories don’t display very nicely on a shelf like other collections).

Connect with Jamie at jamieerickson.com

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Should be required reading for every mom. Challenging yet simultaneously encouraging. Superb and relatable writing.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 beautiful stars.
This book is the perfect balance between sweet gospel reminders and helpful, practical ideas to help an overwhelmed mom out.
I wish I had Jamie’s way with words to write a review worthy of the book, but all I can say is that I believe every mom would be blessed by reading this, whether you feel overwhelmed or not.

[Jen Redmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most biblical and practical books on managing all the stuff of life as a woman…! highly recommend. Not just for moms with littles or homeschool moms — this is for women who want to be rooted in Christ and live out their calling in surrender to Him.

[Tiffany Detweiler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated Jamie’s insights on approaching each day living intentionally in the present and relying upon God, not our own strength. She gives good reminders that God wants us to partner with him in our daily lives. God does not expect us to carry the load of being a wife, mother, employee, servant (etc) on our own, rather, he calls us to live each day with a yield heart in obedience to him and the work he has for us.

I especially appreciated her chapter, “Live Your Season”, as a mom of a child that graduated high school and is moving away as well as another being a Senior in high school, I really felt encouraged by Jamie’s words to not let unknowns create anxiety or overwhelm in my life!

Overall, I felt encouraged and grateful for Jamie’s encouragement and wisdom. I’ll happily recommend this book to other moms!

[Katie (Life In The Mundane) Waalkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve had the joy and privilege of getting to read this book over the past few weeks, I’ve been slowly working through it, and it’s been such an encouragement to my weary mama heart.

If you’re feeling stretched thin, wondering if you’re doing enough, or just trying to survive the day-to-day, this book will speak straight to you. Jamie does such a great job weaving together biblical truth and super practical advice without piling on more guilt. I’ve loved all her books, and this one is no different

[Brianna Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars. Excellent book that was exactly what I needed to read in this season. Jamie writes with touches of humor, lots of realistic examples, and large amounts of challenges and encouragement. She builds all of her premises upon the foundation of Scripture and biblical perspectives. She included numerous practical ideas which are helpful and give readers some examples to try or to brainstorm off of. If I had been underlining, my copy of the book would be full of highlights! There are many thought-provoking quotes that I would like to write down and post in the areas I frequent in my home. I did not care for a bit of criticism of a few (unnamed) people that, though understandable and true, didn’t add to the book. This gave a slight feel of condescension which, based on the tone of the rest of the book, I don’t think was the intention of the author. Overall, highly recommend!

——

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in order to write an honest, unbiased review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Jackie Crane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of gospel hope alongside practical suggestions! Felt like a breathe of fresh air in these weary years with young kids.

[Courtney Rich · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has lots of great practical advice if you are an overwhelmed, home schooling, work from home mom. I did not feel like the tips applied well to moms working outside the home, though the broader theological ideas certainly did ring true.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Erickson. I loved the format of the book with chapters such as "choose your hard", "Just Start" and "Move The Needle". Erickson, a seasoned mom of five with three adult children, packs the end of each chapter with practical ideas for all seasons of motherhood. While I don't think all the tidbits in this book will work for my family I came away from this book determined to take a look at areas of my Motherhood I need to work on. I also didn't feel like I'd just received a beating. Each chapter points back to Jesus Christ and his model for us as Mothers. I read it the first time fairly quickly and plan to go back through it (something I don't normally do) and work through the end of chapter ideas for running a home more smoothly and answering the questions about my current overwhelm. I have followed her on social media for years and learned from her to be completely done with Christmas prep by December 1. So every August, I start on my Christmas shopping and menu plans. I wrap the packages as they come in or I find things. Then that first week of December all I have to do is some baking and decorating. It has changed so many things in my motherhood to be ahead like this. You can expect more ideas along these lines in this book.

[Caryne Darling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overwhelmed Mom

A refreshing take on how to flourish where you are and when you are. Overwhelmed is not who you are, it’s not an identity, it does not need to define you. It’s simply a state of being, a season (sometimes a never ending season!) we’ve all experienced or are deep in the trenches of, but can be rooted out by intentionally turning the overwhelming things over to God who never gets tired and can handle our stress. Even better, He longs for us to release it to Him and He can replace it with His peace and joy and confidence. Mixed in with Biblical truths of who we are, why we do what we do, and who God is, are practical tips for managing home and kids from someone who has experience of trial and error, seeking God’s wisdom and has had success! As a mom of young adults down to little kids I appreciate Jamie’s long haul wisdom and down to earth approach to mothering well. This is a book to read, re-read, highlight, sticky note, wear out, and pass along to new moms and seasoned moms alike.

[Rina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this book!! I didn't realize how much I needed this book. It came just at the right time. I think every Mom should read this book!
It is full of wisdom, Biblical truths, and practical tips. There is no condemnation, just grace and encouragement. Jamie is vulnerable and relatable in sharing her own overwhelmed moments and shows how God has redeemed those times. In this culture of busy, this book clearly shows how we can seek peace and find our way out those overwhelming seasons. I usually rush through books like this one but there was so much to ponder and process that I took my time, reading bits here & there. I was thankful for the questions throughout the book to help me to think through what I had read. I annotated this book more than any other I've read recently. I already want to re-read it. I think it will be one of those books where I will gain more each time I read it. This book is a blessing to every Mom in the throes of motherhood.
Thank you to Jamie Erickson and Moody Publishers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jodie Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Just as you and I have to take continuing education classes to hone our skills in the workplace, practice new things, and keep current on ever-changing policies, we’d do well to see professional development for our roles as wives and mothers too.
Two truths can be true at the same time. We can be women who were hand-picked by God to mother our unique children while continuing to grow in the same ways Jesus grew when He walked this earth wearing the flesh of humanity - in wisdom, stature, and favor with both God and man (Luke 2:52)
Right about now, you may be bristling - am I really insinuating that you add one more thing to your plate? Before you preemptively start rolling the credits on this book, may I suggest that learning new skills and forming new habits won’t make a stressful season unbearable. It could actually make it doable. The knowledge and discipline you gain in certain areas will free up time and energy”

[Lisa May · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Holy Hygge by Jamie Erickson a couple of years back and was excited to pick up Overwhelmed Mom. I really appreciate Jamie's perspectives and insights. She is an excellent communicator! In Overwhelmed Mom, Jamie communicates about many areas of life that have the potential to sidetrack a mom from being intentional. She speaks from experience, having lived through may different seasons, and offers both scriptures and helpful suggestions to help keep our eyes focused on what matters most. What I appreciate most about Jamie is that her convictions are deeply rooted in scripture. This isn't a self-help book. It isn't a how-to parent book. It is a book about loving and honoring God in our daily lives and how that fruit presents itself in our daily, messy, beautiful lives. Highly recommend to all moms with kids newborn to newly launched!

[geekoutonreading : Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Feelings of overwhelm don't have to define our days."

In our day and age, moms are simply burnt out. We feel like we have to be everything to everyone at every moment. But we have been duped. We do not have to live that way.

With wisdom and insight, Jamie Erikson shares how we can become less overwhelmed and embrace our stage of motherhood.

At the end of each chapter are questions that you can ponder, scriptures to dive into, and The Motherload: which are different things from decluttering tips to meal planning (or not).

I like how she shared personal stories to help us relate to her, and how she genuinely seems like she wants to help fellow moms. I feel like this is a worthwhile book that every mom should read.

*Thank you to Moody Publishers for a free copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Ann Brisendine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good! I've been reading it for a couple of weeks (in the midst of my busyness!) and it really is such a good reset for my mind. Honestly, I love being a wife, mother, Mimi, and homemaker...but I have been getting caught up in the "my life is so hard and I just want to run away & hide" feelings. Don't get me wrong - sometimes, life really is hard and can seem like the bumps, or disasters even, just never end. This book has been really good at reminding me that sometimes, my mindset can make a huge difference in how I view my circumstances.

There are really so many nuggets of truth in this book...I'll be hanging sticky notes to help me remember them.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book I needed to pick up! Lots of encouragement and truth from the author and the Bible! I love that it is saturated with Scripture that leads me to the truth about motherhood and the work we do. The reminder of who I am and what my calling is and that I do not have to live in overwhelm is exactly what we need to hear. In a culture that gives into the camp of misery and defeat, this book shares the truths that we can depend upon God and come to Him with all those feelings. We are in charge of our response.

[Lindee Shillington · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a seasoned Mom takes time to share wisdom and gentle challenge, I’m here for it. I will come back to this book for reference and encouragement often. I laughed out loud and read through blurry tears. I am so thankful for the ways God used Jamie to mentor me through her words while pointing me back to His Word. I know this book will bless my Mom friends as much as it has blessed me and I can’t wait to share it!

[Samantha Baruzzini · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with the other books I’ve read of hers, I closed the book with a deeply refreshed exhale. Her experience and encouragement is always rooted in scripture and she is not afraid to shy away from the hard stuff that many of us want to ignore. This book is great for help revamping systems in our homes, patterns of thinking, and the spiritual overwhelm many moms feel in our everyday lives. Highly recommend!

[Amanda Harrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing! if you struggle with real momhood, this book will not only encourage you but step on your toes and challenge what culture would have you believe. with biblical support, Jamie inspires you to lean into God honoring momhood when the world provides escapes & excuses & bandaids. this release was all divine timing

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like having brunch with a godly friend. A friend that sees your soul and offers real life solutions and help. It's a conversation about being an overwhelmed mom (sometimes of our own doing). It's a conversation that sets you free from comparison and gives you ways to find the joy in God!

[Beth Graupmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be so encouraging. I felt seen in my struggles as a mom. It is full of wonderful advice and practical tips, all while pointing me to Jesus. It feels as if Jamie is coming alongside me and helping me through with her wise words. I love that it applies across all stages of motherhood, from the baby/toddler years through the teen years.

[Taliah Jeske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie and her writing is such a gift! I've loved Homeschool Bravely, I've loved Holy Hygge, and Overwhelmed Mom is another must have! She offers years of wisdom beyond my own, and in each of her books provides practical, actionable steps that readers can apply. I find I return to her books for encouragement, for help, and I am so thankful for her words and heart for helping others.

[Brittany McManus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you have many children or, like me, are a momma of one (so far), you'll glean from Overwhelmed Mom. Like someone who has been there, Jamie speaks to what many women are facing, sharing biblical truth and practical wisdom along the way. This book was timely in ways I wouldn't have expected, and I think it will be for other moms, too.

[Annette Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

With so many books out there on motherhood and being overwhelmed, this one stands out - in the best way! It's full of wisdom and truth, not just from the author, but always pointing us back to the Lord. Practical, encouraging, full of truth, and a book I plan to read again and again. Highly recommend!

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading "Overwhelmed Mom" is like talking to a trusted friend when you need a lifeline. Jamie gets the longing, tiredness, discouragement and hopefulness of working through the various challenges in parenting. She has useful ideas when you just need some advice but better still, she constantly points the reader back to Jesus who sees us and loves us through all parenting stages.

[Bethanyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read all of Jamie’s books and she always has wisdom and grace woven into her words. Often books with similar themes of overwhelm as a mother come across as trivial or miss the mark. Jamie shares encouragement, convincing remakes, compassion, and practical ideas. It’s another book I’ll come back to again in various seasons.

[Francine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the best book I’ve read about Motherhood. Jamie boldly calls us to excellence, while never allowing us to sit in legalism. And that is an amazing accomplishment for an author.

Full of grace, full of practical advice and full of exhortation — this book reads like a conversation with a seasoned Mother, joyfully pouring into you.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie’s books are like a down to earth conversation with a friend. Practical, biblical wisdom shared in an easy to understand way with simple and practical tips for application. I loved this book! So much to chew on, but also so many simple things you can implement right away. Great for moms in all seasons.

[Kelly Lindstrom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moms have a lot to do, and Jamie Erickson speaks words of encouragement to overwhelmed moms to look to Jesus to provide in the moments of overwhelm, as well as charge women to be faithful in the work placed in front of them. What I will most remember about this book is the practical ideas at the end of each chapter and her reminder to “live in your season.”

[Destiny Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and loved Jamie's other books, and this one is no exception. She has such a beautiful way of writing relationally and encouraging mothers while also inspiring the reader to seek the Lord as they aspire to love and serve their families well. A must read for moms in any season!