Once upon a time, I was a young woman with plenty of free time, flowing hair, and none of the marks of motherhood. Life felt uncomplicated, and I was fortunate not to have much to worry about. Yet, despite this, I still found myself stressed.
Now, as I navigate the complexities of life with three children, sleep deprivation, and hormonal fluctuations, I’ve come to understand the immense responsibility that comes with raising another human being. I’ve learned to embrace the idea of letting go, just as Elsa advises, and that everything tends to fall into place if you allow it. My anxieties about managing this beautiful chaos have lessened, and my priorities have shifted. Sure, I might raise my voice more often, but I’ve realized not to dwell on trivial matters.
I wish I could share these lessons with my younger self, reassuring her that it’s perfectly fine to take a step back. It’s alright to stumble and to know that love makes you more authentic. Here’s what I would tell her:
1. Embrace Relaxation
It’s perfectly fine to strive for excellence, but it’s equally important to accept failure. You might forget your daughter’s turn as the classroom helper, leading to tears and guilt, yet forgiveness is part of love. Sometimes, you’ll excel at making lunches, and other days, you won’t. Life has its ups and downs, and it’s crucial to forgive yourself along the way.
2. Your Marriage Will Flourish
Contrary to the common belief that marriage becomes mundane, you’ll discover that it evolves into something even better. Yes, there will be fatigue and disagreements about parenting, and you may occasionally feel resentful during those long maternity leave days. Yet, your partner will surprise you with his willingness to contribute—packing lunches, cooking dinner, and even indulging in silly moments. You’ll find laughter together, and your bond will deepen in ways you never expected. Cherish this; he’s truly a gem.
3. Your Body Will Change
Accepting this reality early on will save you from unnecessary frustration. You’ll look in the mirror and wonder what happened to your pre-baby self, but your body has accomplished incredible feats. While your appearance may alter, there’s still beauty in it. And remember, your partner will continue to appreciate you just as you are.
4. Savor Each Moment
Time flies, and even the tough periods will eventually pass. While it’s hard to see the bright side during challenging times, you’ll find that the joyful memories are what linger. Be playful with your kids, create blanket forts, and enjoy the little things like shared laughter and spontaneous adventures. Say yes more often, take plenty of photos, and cherish moments with family and friends. Life can be wonderfully fulfilling if you let it unfold naturally.
Above all, accept that life is a series of changes. Don’t get caught up in controlling every aspect; embrace the journey ahead. You’re about to welcome three amazing new additions to your life who will love you deeply, helping you to become truly “real.”
Life is a beautiful adventure, full of challenges and joys beyond your imagination.
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Summary
Reflecting on the lessons learned through motherhood, this article offers four key insights: the importance of relaxation, the evolving nature of marriage, acceptance of body changes, and the need to cherish every moment. Embracing these truths can lead to a more fulfilling life experience.