As I navigate the journey of motherhood, I’ve come to appreciate the evolution I’ve undergone. While the phases of parenting shift rapidly, I recently realized a profound truth: I take pride in the mother I am evolving into. Even after enduring a particularly chaotic morning that left me feeling as though I had failed as a mom, I found a sense of pride.
This pride stems from my growing self-acceptance. I’ve learned to brush off others’ judgments regarding my parenting choices. More importantly, when I stumble, I’m getting better at forgiving myself, learning from the experience, and moving on instead of dwelling on my mistakes.
I’ve allowed my children to witness my vulnerable moments. They see me express my emotions, whether I’m shedding tears or feeling frustrated. At one time, I believed I needed to shield them from my feelings, thinking it would protect them from the harsh realities of life. I feared that displaying emotion would frighten them, believing I had to exemplify unwavering self-control. While maintaining composure is still important, I realize that I don’t have to be perfect. I am human, and managing the needs of three little ones can be overwhelming. Sometimes, I just want to enjoy a few moments to myself—like finishing a chapter in my book without interruptions.
I’ve become more proactive in requesting what I need. I reach out to friends, family, and even my kids. I no longer view asking for help as a weakness; rather, I see it as an essential skill I want to instill in my children. They need to learn that seeking assistance is a sign of strength, and I want them to see their mother confidently asking for support when necessary.
I’ve also started adopting a more relaxed attitude toward life’s little hiccups. The house doesn’t always have to be spotless, forgetting things isn’t catastrophic, and being late occasionally is acceptable. Life happens, and people are generally understanding.
Learning to say no has become a powerful tool in my parenting arsenal. When something feels overwhelming, or if I’m simply not up for it, I assertively say no. I’m gaining strength through these daily lessons, navigating the tangled web of motherhood and realizing that mistakes, while challenging, are rarely disastrous. My kids are alright, and so am I.
I’ve also begun prioritizing my needs. In the past, I struggled to take time for myself, often viewing such actions as selfish. Now I understand that self-care is vital and that I deserve time to recharge—perhaps with a margarita and a much-needed evening off.
My growth isn’t about perfecting Pinterest-worthy meals or crafts; it’s about feeling more at ease in my role as a mother. I recognize what truly matters and what makes me feel inadequate. Instead of beating myself up over mistakes, I’m learning to move forward. Embracing the occasional “fuck it” moment has been liberating.
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In summary, the journey of motherhood is fraught with challenges, but each day offers an opportunity for growth. I’m proud of the mother I’m becoming, and I look forward to continuing this path of self-acceptance and strength.