As you’ve heard me share before, I truly struggled in my transition to motherhood – a challenging labor and recovery and later postpartum depression – it was anything but simple or natural for me. The first year of my son’s life was a doozy. It was difficult to make time for myself, and with each new phase of his development I felt myself slip further and further away from the Melanie I once knew.
Thankfully, in year two, I began to settle into this new role, and I made a firm commitment to put my needs first so that I could show up fully for my son, my husband and my work. And just as I began to feel like me again I learned that I was pregnant with our second child. The news was bittersweet. While a part of me felt so blessed and excited, another part of me was terrified of what was to come.
A few months ago I shot this video for myself to serve as a reminder of all the lessons I learned in that first year of motherhood and to ensure that the first year of my second child’s life would be joyful and pleasant for me.
Here are my tips on how to ensure you don’t lose yourself in this demanding role
1. Get out…without the kids. Take time to get out of the house doing something you truly enjoy.
2. Surrender to help. Rather than trying to be super mom, be realistic and honest about what you do you and don’t have time for. Ask for help and always accept help when it’s offered.
3. Create a support group. Whether it’s fellow moms or caregivers from your neighborhood, your girlfriends or a social club – find a place where you can connect, share and be vulnerable with other women.
Okay, it’s your turn. I want to hear from you.
Have you ever lost your way in motherhood? If so, how did you handle it? And what was most challenging.
If you have a tip for not losing yourself in the role of motherhood or caregiver – please post a comment.
Remember, your voice is truly valued and has an impact on our community.
Thank you for stopping by to read this post. If you found it valuable, please share it with your friends.
Be well,
Melanie