How the Glass Ball Theory Can Help Overwhelmed Moms Prioritize What Really Matters
If you're a mom in early motherhood who constantly feels overwhelmed, you're not alone. Many of the moms I work with in my postpartum therapy practice in New Jersey come to me feeling buried under an endless to-do list. Between work, childcare, relationships, home management, and trying to squeeze in a shower or moment of rest, it’s no wonder you’re exhausted.
One concept I often introduce in therapy for millennial moms is the Glass Ball Theory - a simple yet powerful framework to help you reduce anxiety, ease the mental load, and give yourself permission to let go of unrealistic expectations.
What Is the Glass Ball Theory?
The Glass Ball Theory was made widely known by Nora Roberts, a best-selling author and mother, during a conversation about work-life balance. She explained that in life, you're juggling multiple balls—some are made of glass, and some are made of plastic.
If you drop a plastic ball, it may bounce or roll away. No big deal—you can pick it up later.
But if you drop a glass ball, it could crack or shatter. These are the things that need your attention and care.
Why This Theory Resonates with Moms in Early Motherhood
As a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health and high-functioning anxiety in moms, I see this all the time - especially in moms trying to do it all. The pressure to keep up with everything often leads to burnout, resentment, and feelings of failure.
But here’s the truth: You’re not failing. You’re juggling too many balls.
The Glass Ball Theory reminds us that we don’t have to give equal weight to everything. Some things can be set down—at least for now—so we can focus on what matters most.
What Are Your Glass Balls?
Your glass balls might be different from someone else’s. But here are some examples I commonly see with the moms I support in therapy for new moms in New Jersey:
Glass Balls (non-negotiables):
Your physical and mental health
Bonding time with your baby
Rest and recovery (yes, sleep is a survival need)
Your safety and well-being
Nurturing your closest relationships
Plastic Balls (okay to drop for now):
Perfectly clean house
Elaborate home-cooked meals every night
Keeping up with every group text or mom group chat
Always saying yes to plans or volunteering
Staying on top of every piece of laundry (it’s okay if the dryer is your closet this week)
How to Use This in Your Daily Life
Here’s how you can use the Glass Ball Theory to reduce your mental load and feel more grounded:
List your balls. Grab a journal or use the Notes app on your phone. Write down everything you’re juggling- appointments, chores, tasks, expectations.
Label them. Ask yourself: “If I dropped this, what would happen?” Label each one as glass or plastic.
Prioritize the glass. Focus your energy and attention on the glass balls. Let the plastic ones bounce, or delegate them if you can.
Reassess often. What’s glass today might be plastic next week. Early motherhood is constantly shifting - give yourself permission to adapt.
Say no to protect your yes. If something threatens a glass ball, it’s okay to say no to preserve your capacity.
Final Thoughts
If you're navigating early motherhood in New Jersey and struggling with the pressure to keep all the balls in the air, know that you don’t have to do it alone. At Empowered Counseling, I specialize in supporting millennial moms with high-functioning anxiety and postpartum stress. Together, we can sort through the chaos, identify your glass balls, and build a life that feels more manageable—and more meaningful.
You deserve to feel supported, understood, and empowered.
Looking for support?
I offer virtual postpartum therapy for moms in New Jersey, including support for anxiety, identity shifts, relationship stress, and burnout.
Click here to schedule a free consultation or learn more about the Empowered Moms Community - a space to connect with other moms who get it.