Motherhood & Identity: The Importance of Prioritizing Oneself

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Why is it that as mothers we sometimes struggle with our post-baby identities? How can we wear both the hat of mother but also continue to be a vivacious woman capable of holding an adult conversation, seducing her partner and maintain that spark, that energy?

We address these vulnerabilities in roundabout ways: postpartum body complaints of stretch marks, and boobs that are now too small, too big. Somewhere along the line yoga pants and topknots become our daily uniform.  But these insecurities are not just manifestations of our physical changes but social and emotional changes as well. Date nights and cocktail hour with the girls get pushed to the back burner along with plenty of other things. Priorities change and sometimes we end up forgetting an important one: Ourselves.

For sure being a mama is awesome! I am the first to say I am a much better person as mother than I was before my daughter came into my life. She brings me so much endless joy (although this headbutting stage has got to go…) however I think it is important to remember who we are as women, not just as mothers.

 So the question remains, what can we do to support not ourselves but each other?  

Maybe the key is finding a balance, or better yet, a way to assimilate motherhood with our personal identities. Hammer out those body insecurities and own our beautiful figures. That body brought life into this world, so try to remember that next time you feel like putting yourself down because of some number on the scale!

Prioritize me-time. Let’s carve out that space in our busy lives to do something entirely selfish, whether it be writing a story or reading a Sookie Stackhouse book. Put on some cute shoes even if you are only running to the grocery store. Dress up a little for no one but yourself or make a quick walk in the morning part of your daily routine. 

In the end, it doesn't matter what you do to reconnect with yourself only that you do it!