There’s no doubt that motherhood changes you down to your core. When talking with other mothers, this certainly seems to be the consensus. I know this is certainly true for me.

Here are ten ways that motherhood changed me:

1. It taught me how to ask for support when I need it. Before motherhood, I would try to do it all, all of the time. I learned quickly that this is unsustainable in motherhood and, as I result, I got comfortable asking others to help out.

2. It required me to be more mindful. Before I had children, I got caught up in past and future thinking. Now, I value each moment so much that I feel like I don’t have any other choice but to be mindful and fully present.

3. It allowed me to feel more steady and grounded in my values. Read: I care less about what other people think, say, or do. I live my life according to what’s best for me and my family.

4. It encouraged me to be more politically responsible. I *gasp* never followed politics or voted until I became a mom. I now feel compelled to use my voice not only for myself, but for my children, too. 

5. It made me more assertive. I’m more likely to call somebody out or to say “no” to other people’s requests. Whether it’s someone driving too fast through my neighborhood (yep, I’m that parent now) or I have to decline a social event to protect my energy (I’m an introvert and only have so much energy to give) – I’m more confident in asserting my wants or needs.

6. It made me feel more secure in my body. Becoming a mom fostered an even deeper sense of acceptance and respect towards my body. I have a renewed respect for how capable my body is – I mean, it grew and birthed two humans. 

7. It taught me that it’s okay to press pause. In my career, I’m kind of notorious for being growth oriented… always wanting to do more, to say “yes,” to expand. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still passionate about my work, but now that I am a mom, I am comfortable with where I’m at in my career and know that I have time to do even bigger things later. I understand that I don’t have to do it all or do it all now. I’m in no rush and it feels good. 

8. It made me better at prioritizing. Now that I’m a mom, there is no space for BS. I can quickly nix things off my to-do list. I delegate more and overall just do less and I’m much happier not just as a mom, but as an individual, because of it.

9. It allowed me to heal hurtful childhood experiences. Being a mom has allowed for me to reflect on myself as a child and validate that little girl’s hurt, as well as forgive those who hurt me as a child.

10. It made me more comfortable with imperfection. I’m a recovering perfectionist and becoming a mom has propelled me further along in my recovery.  I have come to a place of being content with so many things not being 100% (I would say 70% is my new 100% now that I’m a mom) and I feel like I can more fully embrace imperfection.

Becoming a mom has expanded my personal growth journey and has permanently impacted me as a person for the better. I wouldn’t change my chaotic and imperfect life as a mom for anything – I find it absolutely lovely.

How has motherhood changed you?

1 COMMENT

  1. I’m sure you have so many motherhood stories already. You have a very healthy relationship with yourself and your family. We all face obstacles in our daily lives and understanding that we can’t do it all ourselves, and asking for help when we need it can feel like a sign of weakness, when it actually is a great sign of strength. When all of your efforts are concentrated on raising our children we forget about ourselves and feel run down in the process. So to stay healthy for our families it’s best to extend a hand and get help from a lifeline. Phone a friend, keep the lines of communication open with your spouse or significant other, don’t be afraid to say what’s on your mind and share the burden. Let someone else pick up the toys or fold the laundry. And never forget to take a time out.

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