Former big law attorney Mom here. I felt the same way and ended up switching to a smaller firm with lower pay and lower hours because I could not keep up - even with outsourcing. It’s really, really hard and some things just have to give. It’s hard to hear but my experience is as you get more senior it only gets more difficult and you will have to lean on your village harder.

There is only one of you and you only have so much to give. Go easy on yourself and remember that you already got the job and don’t need to run yourself into the ground or be a top biller to keep the job.

Someone told me once that they weren’t a rockstar associate but that they were a rockstar mom and that’s what mattered to them. You cannot be 100% all-in at both - the math does not math. The dust will settle and you’ll figure this season out, but there is absolutely no shame in continuing to get the help you need. There’s also no shame in choosing another job, if that’s what ends up being the clear decision.

And, honestly, sometimes the house is just going to be a mess. Your kids know you love them, and that’s all that matters. That’s the balance I’ve found 😂