Becoming a mother is one of the most incredible experiences you can have! It’s a journey filled with love, joy, and countless precious moments where you want to document everything. But, among those moments are the whirlwind of diaper changes, sleepless nights, and playdates. With all of that going on, so many moms find themselves caught up in the all-encompassing role of parenthood.
While being a mom is fulfilling, we often lose sight of the fact that we’re so much more than “MOM”! You had your own identity before you were “Jason’s Mom”, right? Rediscovering your identity beyond the role of a mom can be a powerful and liberating journey. The process of rediscovering your identity is so important and I have some practical tips on where to get started.
Losing Yourself in Motherhood
Motherhood often demands undivided attention and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of your children. In the midst of this all-consuming role, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are as an individual. You get lost in the whirlwind of motherhood and it can lead to an identity crisis where you start to question your own needs, desires, and interests outside of being a mom. But how did you get to that point? Well, in the simplest of terms – you were busy taking care of others and focusing on your children, so you didn’t have a chance to focus on you. So let’s start to unpack your identity…
Who are You Outside of Being a Mom?
That’s a loaded question, right? The first step in rediscovering yourself is to acknowledge that you are more than just a mother. Say it out loud: I AM MORE THAN JUST A MOTHER! Remember: you are a unique individual with your own dreams, passions, and interests. Embracing this reality is crucial because it allows you to shift your perspective and make room for personal growth and self-discovery.
You Need to Prioritize Your Self-Care
You know how people say “You can’t pour from an empty cup?” Well, you can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for every person on earth but especially moms. And it’s more than just taking a bubble bath and getting a massage every so often. Self-care involves recharging every battery in your system from your mind and body to your spirit and overall health. Taking time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes each day, can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a run, or pursuing a hobby you love, these moments of self-care can help you reconnect with yourself.
Set Non-Mom-Related Personal Goals
Along the lines of self-care, setting personal goals is an effective way to regain a sense of purpose beyond motherhood. You can even make self-care a goal but these goals can be big or small, short-term or long-term. Whether you want to take up a new hobby, further your education, or start a new career path, having personal goals gives you something to strive for and look forward to. Bonus: when your kids see you reach your goals, they get excited for you and you spark an interest in goal setting for them, too.
What are Your Interests Outside of Motherhood?
It’s really hard to go through life without having meaningful relationships. Having people to count on where the feeling is mutual is one of life’s greatest joys. Maintaining meaningful relationships with friends and family members can provide a valuable support system as you work on rediscovering yourself. These connections remind you that you are loved and valued for who you are, not just for your role as a parent.
Nurture Relationships Outside of Playdates
It’s really hard to go through life without having meaningful relationships. Having people to count on where the feeling is mutual is one of life’s greatest joys. Maintaining meaningful relationships with friends and family members can provide a valuable support system as you work on rediscovering yourself. These connections remind you that you are loved and valued for who you are, not just for your role as a parent.
Call in a Professional
Rediscovering yourself can be really hard to do, especially if you’re doing it on your own. If you find that the process of rediscovering your identity is particularly challenging or you’re dealing with emotional struggles, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. Professional guidance can provide you with the tools and insights needed to navigate this journey successfully.
Being a mom is a beautiful and fulfilling part of life, but it’s essential not to lose sight of your individuality in the process. Rediscovering yourself beyond the role of a parent is not only beneficial for your well-being but also sets a positive example for your children. Embrace your unique identity, prioritize self-care, set personal goals, cultivate your interests, nurture relationships, and seek help if needed. Remember that you are more than just a mom – you are a multifaceted individual with endless possibilities for growth and self-discovery.
