If you’re a working mom who constantly feels like she’s sleepwalking, there’s a reason why: a new study shows that if you add up the amount of time working moms spend at their actual, paying job, plus the time they spend caring for their children, it equals out to about 98 hours per week. That’s the equivalent of TWO full-time jobs. No wonder you’re in need of some extra zzzs.
The study surveyed 2,000 women with children ages five to 12. Researchers discovered that these ladies typically kicked off the day around 6:30, and didn’t wrap up their duties until about 8:30 at night. This means once they’re done with work, they’re shuttling kids to the doctor, karate, piano, and then home for dinner. Once all of this was complete, most moms typically only had about an hour of down time to themselves.
Shout out to the ladies who make this look easy. We raise our cup of extra strong coffee to you.
Lauren Levine is a freelance writer who has contributed to publications and websites including The Charlotte Observer, U.S. News & World Report, American Way magazine, The Huffington Post, Hello Giggles, Bustle, Thrillist, Thought Catalog, and others.