why can’t i feel joy?
You know you love them.
But some days, joy feels like something other people get to feel. You feel you should be enjoying this more.
If you’re neurodivergent, your brain might be wired to notice danger before delight.
To scan for what’s wrong. To brace for the next need, the next meltdown, the next failure.
So even when your child smiles at you, or the house is quiet, or nothing is technically wrong... joy can still feel out of reach.
These voice notes are for the parents who love their children deeply, and still wonder why they can’t feel the lightness of it all.
You’re not doing it wrong. Your system is just tired. You’re not alone.
Voice Notes
Would you like to add a voice note?
Feel free to ramble… we can edit the voice notes and send them back to you for sign off.
They can be anonymous if you feel more comfortable with that.
A good way to voice note is to use a voice memo app.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable, we advise that you just get started recording a memo. You can stop and re-record, but once you start, it becomes more comfortable!
Share the file here.
If you’d like some help getting started, let us know!
Journaling prompts
What didn’t go wrong today?
A simple reframe that often reveals more steadiness than we notice at the time.
Where and when do I enjoy parenting — even just a little?
What moments feel light or funny or less like a chore?
Outdoors? On walks? In the car with music on? With other adults nearby?
What am I genuinely afraid will happen if I let myself enjoy this?
And then gently ask: Why? Where did that belief come from?
Bonus Prompt (Optional Bedtime Practice)
At the end of each day, jot down one moment where parenting held joy - even if just for a second.
Please share your Journaling insights!
Click below if you had a ‘moment’. We’d love to hear what resonated. This helps shape future voice notes and journals.