Communication has never been my strong suit, and since becoming a mother, I’ve noticed it’s become even more challenging. Texts, calls, and emails go unanswered for days as I struggle to respond in a timely manner. Is it because I’m an introvert or because I overthink my replies, leading to anxiety? Regardless, I’ve witnessed a shift in my friendships since welcoming my second child, Hugo. The silence of my phone and the absence of invites leave me feeling isolated and guilty for not being more present. Finding time for my friends and even my husband has become a struggle amidst the demands of caring for a sick baby, sleep deprivation, and a loss of personal identity. However, I recognize the importance of self-care and connection, both for my own well-being and the harmony of my relationships.
Having experienced a similar situation during the COVID lockdown with my first child, Noah, I understand the toll it takes. Hugo’s bout with COVID at just five months old has resulted in frequent illnesses and a return to isolation. As I navigate this challenging journey once again, I find myself lacking the mental and physical capacity to connect with friends. Although I have intentions to reach out and check on them, distractions and overwhelming responsibilities often hinder my follow-through.
Before Hugo’s recent illness, I had managed to establish a slightly better routine. Daily walks, occasional meetups with friends, and time dedicated to self-care provided a glimmer of balance. However, I’ve slipped back into old habits, struggling to carve out time for myself, let alone nurture friendships. The quest to discover who I am beyond being a mother seems daunting when I can barely find a moment to explore what truly brings me joy.
Taking the First Steps:
In an effort to reclaim my identity and prevent burnout, I’ve decided to return to basics. This week, I’ve set simple goals for self-care: getting my hair done, tidying up my eyebrows, setting two achievable goals, and committing to exercising at least three times. By documenting these intentions in my blog, I hope to hold myself accountable and invite support from others.
Taking time for myself is crucial. It rejuvenates my spirit and allows me to be a better person, mother, friend, and wife. Neglecting self-care puts me at risk of burning out and harboring resentment, perpetuating a cycle of imbalance. It’s a continuous journey, but I understand that investing in my well-being is a vital aspect of navigating the challenges of motherhood.
As I navigate the complexities of motherhood, I acknowledge the communication challenges I face and the impact they have on my relationships. The journey of self-discovery outside of being a mother may seem overwhelming, but by prioritizing self-care and connection, I can foster a sense of balance and fulfillment. Taking small steps towards my goals and documenting them holds me accountable and reminds me of the importance of investing in myself.
“Motherhood is a journey of self-discovery. It’s a journey of finding your strength, your courage, and your compassion. It’s a journey of learning to love unconditionally, even when you don’t feel like it. And it’s a journey of finding your own happiness, even when you’re busy taking care of someone else.”
Come with me on this Journey, and each week I will keep you posted on my progress and where I am at. I invite you to join me this week in starting your own journey of setting aside time for yourself. We may not always get it right, but we are making an effort. Together, we can support and uplift each other as we strive to find our own identities amidst the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Let’s embark on this adventure of self-discovery and self-care, knowing that we are worthy of time, love, and personal growth.
Follow my Instagram account to stay updated on my progress and gain inspiration for your own personal growth. Feel free to Contact me to connect and reach out for support. Together we can share our journey of rediscovering ourselves amidst motherhood.
