Since welcoming my two children into the world, my brain has undergone a significant transformation. There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to this shift. For instance, I’ve become far more adept at juggling multiple tasks, yet I often forget around 40% of what I intended to achieve. It’s fine, though—thankfully, I’ve learned to be more forgiving of myself. With all the chaos swirling in my mom-brain daily, it can feel cramped and overwhelming. Here are ten ways my thinking has evolved since becoming a parent:
1. Forgetfulness is My New Norm
I can easily leave a full bag of groceries (the only one I just bought) on the counter and walk home, only to be chased down by the cashier yelling, “Excuse me! Do you want your groceries?” I even mix up my kids’ names (one is a baby boy and the other is a 5-year-old girl). My train of thought derails mid-sentence, and I often find myself wondering, “What was I just saying?”
2. Anxiety Levels Have Increased
Caring for two children and ensuring their health is more challenging than it appears. They seem to catch every illness and push boundaries, like when my baby thought a cat’s hairball was a snack (thankfully, it wasn’t what I feared). If they’re not getting into mischief, they’re crying for no apparent reason, leaving me on edge.
3. Panic is Just Around the Corner
“Is that a staircase without a gate? A black widow spider? Bill Cosby???”
4. Chronic Exhaustion is My Reality
I survived a whole year with almost no sleep. Before kids, I would have canceled all my commitments, but now I somehow manage. Sleepless nights are still tough, but I know I’ll pull through—though I may look like a zombie, coffee and oversized sunglasses help.
5. Grossness Doesn’t Phase Me
Very few things gross me out anymore. From green snot to poop and hair-clogged drains, I’ve seen it all—even when I didn’t want to. Need a plumber, or a butt-wiper? Call a mom. Just not me; I’ve got my hands full.
6. My To-Do List is Always on My Mind
I’m constantly mentally juggling tasks: taking out the trash, doing laundry, and avoiding that musty smell from forgotten clothes. I could run around looking for my grocery list or just write a new one. And don’t let the kids turn into couch potatoes—turn off the TV! Wait, maybe I should finish this first…
7. I’m Always Prepared for Chaos
I’m like a ninja, ready to catch flying vomit or grab cups of water before they spill. I can snatch the baby before he tumbles down the stairs or slams his fingers in a door. Anticipating his every move like a hawk—except I’m not out to get him, just trying to keep him safe.
8. Relaxation Requires Assistance
I find it hard to unwind without a little help—wine is the answer, folks.
9. Coffee is Essential for Waking Up
I struggle to wake up without coffee or the delightful surprise of tiny feet in my face. I’d much rather have coffee.
10. My Emotions Are Tied to My Kids
I could be having a great personal day until one of my children starts to melt down. On the bright side, even when life feels challenging, two happy kids can instantly lift my spirits. Guess which scenario happens more often?
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Summary:
Becoming a mother has significantly altered my thought processes, leading to increased forgetfulness, heightened anxiety, and a perpetual state of exhaustion. My multitasking skills have improved, but so has my tolerance for chaos and grossness. While it can be overwhelming, the joy my kids bring often outweighs the stress.