When my daughter was born almost 8 years ago now, I found a new name. And that name was mom. As a new mother, I was determined to never allow my life to revolve around my child, but strangely, I got sucked into this whole motherhood experience that was exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. In that process of changing diapers, breastfeeding the baby, trying to read parenting books on how to put your baby to sleep, my life surely but slowly became all about the baby.
Even my husband didn’t really have much space in my heart!
But listen.
Your identity as mom is just one part of you. It’s not your entire being.
All our lives, we tend to attach our identities to the things we do… our careers, hobbies, community work and more. So women who leave the work force to be a full-time mother tend to feel a void in their lives, because suddenly, your identity is only mom. You don’t even have time for the hobbies you had before you became a wife and mother.
It’s natural to feel protective towards your child, and wanting the best for him or her. You sacrifice so much for your child. Your thoughts are consumed about their well-being. But soon, your tank is empty because you never found time for yourself. And when your relationship with your husband is strained, it’s hard to get back into the marriage emotionally.
Mom, give yourself space. Rediscover yourself, your passions, your dreams. Instead of doing, just BE.
