Who Has the Time? Making the Infamous Mom Friends

Having a circle of mom friends - or even just one - can be a lifeline. They’re the ones who understand the sleepless nights, celebrate your small victories (like remembering to pack the extra pacifier), and can empathize when you're caught in the never-ending cycle of laundry. But how do you go about forming these relationships when your schedule already feels maxed out?

Motherhood is a whirlwind—add a job into the mix, and the idea of making "mom friends" feels like chasing an impossible dream. Between back-to-back meetings, diaper changes, carpool duty, and trying to maintain some semblance of a personal life, you might wonder: Who has the time?

But hear us out. Having a circle of mom friends - or even just one - can be a lifeline. They’re the ones who understand the sleepless nights, celebrate your small victories (like remembering to pack the extra pacifier), and can empathize when you're caught in the never-ending cycle of laundry. But how do you go about forming these relationships when your schedule already feels maxed out?

Photo by Christina Morillo

Start Where You Are

The easiest way to meet other moms is to connect in spaces you already frequent. Are there moms at your workplace? Start a casual conversation in the break room or set up a lunch group for working moms. Bonus: Workplaces with family-friendly initiatives, like Work & Mother’s on-site lactation suites , can also double as great places to meet like-minded moms. We have heard from many moms that the friendships they’ve gained through impromptu meet-ups or run-ins while pumping in the suites have been a welcomed surprise. Not only are these women in similar life stages, but it can be helpful to have mom friends outside of your company when facing personal and/or professional challenges.

If your little ones are in daycare or school, those pickup and drop-off moments can also be an opportunity. A simple “Hi, how old is your child?” can open the door. These brief chats may grow into deeper connections.

Leverage Your Kids’ Activities

From soccer practice to ballet lessons, your kids' activities often bring you into contact with other parents. While your child learns to dribble or pirouette, use the time to strike up conversations with other moms. Shared experiences, like cheering on the team or watching recitals, create natural bonding opportunities. And can come in handy as they grow and the need for complex carpool spreadsheets arises.

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

Be Realistic About Your Time

If the idea of mom friendships sounds appealing but also overwhelming, take heart: these relationships don’t have to demand a lot of time. A quick coffee date during your lunch break, a text exchange about parenting hacks, or even joining a mom-focused group on LinkedIn can foster connections.

The goal isn’t to add another “to-do” to your list, but to integrate these friendships into your existing life. It's okay to prioritize quality over quantity. A couple of good mom friends can be more supportive than a large network.

Create Opportunities to Gather

If you’re the proactive type, take the initiative to host a small gathering. Think low-key: a Saturday morning park playdate or a post-work stroller walk. These casual settings allow you to connect without the pressure of formal planning.

Online communities like Facebook groups for local moms or parenting forums are also great places to connect. They allow you to participate in discussions or plan meetups at your convenience.

Accept the Awkwardness

Let’s be honest—making friends as an adult can feel awkward. But remember, the other moms you’re meeting are probably feeling the same way. Everyone’s busy, everyone’s tired, and everyone’s just trying their best. A little vulnerability and humor go a long way in making connections.

• Tip from our team: Books on friendship (or audio books during nursing/pumping sessions) can help provide a little inspiration and practical applications. Platonic offers thoughts on attachment and “finding your people” while The Life Council walks readers through the different types of friendships with plenty of personal stories.

Tip from our team: Books on friendship (or audio books during nursing/pumping sessions) can help provide a little inspiration and practical applications. Platonic offers thoughts on attachment and “finding your people” while The Life Council walks readers through the different types of friendships with plenty of personal stories.

At the end of the day, mom friendships are about support, shared understanding, and laughter—whether it’s commiserating about tantrums or celebrating work wins. Making time for these connections can enrich your life in ways that make the juggle of work and motherhood just a little bit easier. After all, who better to understand your world than someone living it too?

So…who has the time? You do—because these friendships are worth it.