No matter what age you are when you become a mom, your life will change. You could be barely an adult or about to enter middle age; whichever one applies, you’re still going to go through a lot of the same experiences. Regardless of your background or other personal details, you will notice that you completely change. And feelings of losing identity in motherhood can arise.
You no longer put yourself first because now you have this incredible little life (or more of them) to care for. At first, it can be overwhelming. But, before long, it just becomes natural. You’re a mom, and you’re enjoying most of the journey (everyone has their moments). But you may find that you don’t always feel like yourself anymore – and that doesn’t have to be the case.
Because YES you can be a mom and still be you. Here are some tips to help strengthen your sense of self now that you’re a mother.
Get into a rhythm
First of all, to make this happen, you really have to get yourself into a good rhythm. This is easier said than done but if you can find a schedule or routine that works for your family then you’re going to be able to nail this mom thing and have more time to feel like you again. When things start to work a little more like clockwork, you are in a better position to avoid stressful moments and feel like you’ve got this.
Have a hobby
If you manage to free up a little more time, or just make better use of the time you have, you’ll be able to indulge in a little something for you. So, find a hobby. Whether it’s something that you choose to do one evening per week or while the kids are at school – do it. You will be able to have that one hour here or there to dedicate to yourself, to then come back fully refreshed for more mom duties.
Losing identity in motherhood? Find support
You may also need to get yourself some support because being a mom is tough. Sometimes, you get stressed out, and at other times you’ll find yourself needing some advice. This is where something such as the tips from innerparents comes in, or a close circle of other moms. You need to have that support; they’re there to help you when times feel tough.
Keep working
Next, you’ll likely find that it’s worth your time to keep on working – even if it’s from home. Lots of people love the idea of being a full-time mommy but it can be exhausting, and you can lose yourself in it. But, by keeping your job or choosing to volunteer, you have something else to focus on, in addition to parenting.
Make room for ‘me time’
Finally, you’re also going to want to make room for some ‘me time’. It’s not being selfish. And it can just be a few minutes – these ideas can help. But you do need to ensure that you can recharge and regroup so that you know you’re still you!
my son is now 9 but I always have to remember to find time for myself… yes it gets a lil easier but sometimes I feel overwhelmed… great read
As a mom of 3 beautiful kids 2 daughters, and one son this article is so true. I have been through hard times starting off with getting custody of my niece who I adopted at 8 yrs old now she is 14 yrs old, and is now my daughter was a very ruff time. T
I agree with you! I’ve been a mom for only 5 months so far and I can say that all of that is definitely important to keep in mind and do!
Love this. I struggled with Postpartum depression and every emotion was intense. Always take time for yourself. Even if you only get an 1 hour a week or a day a month! Take that time for YOU!
I am a little over 3 months post partum and this could not be more true!! I love my little girl more than life itself but trying to still be me and a mom is hard. Great post! I go back to work soon (as a critical care nurse) and I am surprisingly really looking forward to it. It is only 3 days a week so I am happy to still have plenty of time off to play with my daughter!
YES🙌🙌🙌
so true
So true! Thank you for being you and sharing these thoughts.
I feel like I really needed to read this right now! I’ve only been a mom for 2.5 years but I do feel not like myself at times. Just recently decided to blog about it and already feel like using that as my “me time” has helped. Such a good article.
Wow I really needed to learn this lesson YEARS ago, but it’s one most moms struggle with. It’s so easy to put everyone else first and not cut out that time, but it’s so important!! Great post!!
Me time is hardest one
As a mother of 3 boys (ages 13, age 10, and age 1) and I can tell you that this article is so true. I love that this article is here for new moms to read because its important for any mom really to make time for themselves because we cant care for our kids unless we care for us and that means our sanity too. I love this article.
I struggle with finding “me time” and not feeling guilty about having something else to do! When I worked, I would come home and binge watch tv, but now, I feel like if I do that, I’m being a lazy stay at home mom! I always have something else I need to do or work on!
I am 3 months post-parturm and I am the transition to motherhood hasn’t been an easy one. I am still attempting to get into a rhythm with no luck. A hobby? Blogging. Its been fun. Thank you for sharing this.
Thank you for sharing! I just need this. :)
Such good advice! A lot of times finding that “me” time also involves being very creative too! And sometimes a little unorthodox 😂
Awesome advice!
Finding “me time” is vital!
wonderfully written
A little me time goes a long way!
Yes! “Me time” is a must!!!
For sure! 🙌
I felt like this when I first had my bub, that’s probably one of the reasons why I started to blog so that I could collect my thoughts and not just be in survival mode… thanks for the tips :) taking some me time is def part of my New Years resolution for 2018
Great advice!
Thanks for sharing! I’m expecting my first baby soon so I can definitely relate! The baby isn’t even here yet and I already feel like I’m not myself anymore! Great advice on how to still be me :)
This is exactly what I needed to read today, thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing this. Being a new mom to a infant and having to live apart from my partner, it’s been a real struggle. This article has really helped me!
Loved this article! I don’t have kids but my friends who do appreciated this article – thank you so much!
And I appreciate your sharing it with them!
I am struggling with finding the rhythm. As you so rightly said without a rhythm its really difficult for me to find time for my family let alone me.
Also i love that you advice to continue working…In spite of it being such a struggle to balance a busy work schedule with my family..i am just not able to quit my job….just so that i dont lose my own identity.
When I first had my son I used to feel so guilty for ever needing “me time” and now looking back on it, it was the only thing keeping me sane. LOL Great post.
Loved it.
very helpful thanks Christy!
I’m not a mom, but I can so relate. Good advice. :) <3
Very well compiled. We all mothers can relate to this. Great article.👍
Yes, I didn’t realize the importance of “me time” earlier !
I didn’t either, I wish I would have. Now I can tell when I need my time to relax and destress
Great advice!
Finding a “me” time was hard for me, I’m a mom of 3… I’ve struggled… a lot. But now I have “my” time and everyone is happy!
Finding a “me” time is always hard when you become a mom.
Wise words my darling xxxx
As a mother and grandmother I unequivocally endorse every one of your recommendations. Excellent advice!! :)
Yes completely agree , the “me” time without guilt is so important because like they say you can keep everyone happy when you’re happy yourself :)
Great advice, Christy :-)
All can find few minutes in the beginning and later more time.