To call motherhood a ‘bubble’ that you’re going through is somewhat of a disservice to what is actually happening. In the same way, it can be a proficient term to describe how you might feel a little distant from things you used to enjoy. Motherhood can change you, and it requires so much of your effort and so much of your virtue that it can be quite tiring. As Moms, we often see our list of social contacts reduce in number but increase in quality, and we are less susceptible to following trends because we have all the satisfaction we need right at home.
That being said, for stay at home Moms especially, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our lives at home, and not need to do much else. This is not to suggest that we have a pampered and easy job on our hands – in fact, it’s quite the opposite! Motherhood is a noble act, and it should be admired. That being said, it’s easy to forget our lives before children – and that should be something that is also treasured.
Please, consider the following:
Being A Mother Is More Than Enough
Being a mother is more than enough. Remembering that is important. When you come from a long period of maternity leave and a long stint as a stay-at-home mother (or father), you can feel out of the loop. You might not be as up with your current television shows because of the early nights you’ve been taking, you may not have had to apply for a job in some time, or you may not have kept up with your local community due to being busy. This doesn’t mean you need to shy away though or feel ashamed for the time spent away just being a parent. Contrarily, you should be proud of the job you’ve done at home and know that you can get back out there whenever it is you deem necessary.
Being True To Yourself Is The Most Important
Remaining true to yourself is an essential part of motherhood. Do not be afraid if your tastes have changed since becoming a Mom, if you have different priorities, or if the idea of heading to the bar for cocktails with your sibling might not seem as appealing as it once did. Perhaps you wish to wear cupcake clothing to be part of a subculture or start a new hobby outside of your usual norms. We all change, but the change from individual to parent can be dramatic.
The Power Of ‘No’
Learning the power of no can be important. As a parent we feel as though everything we do needs to be perfect for our children, and that if we fail to achieve this, we are a terrible person. Of course, you have likely become a wonderful parent, but understanding that this undying care for your children doesn’t necessarily mean saying ‘yes’ to everything imposed upon you by others is important. There are not enough hours in the day to always say ‘yes’, so do what you can and feel okay when you can’t do it all. Remember, you are enough just as you are!
With this advice, you’re sure to stay true to yourself throughout the process of motherhood always remembering to be the best you, you can be!
