Let’s face it. Kids are all consuming. They will take every second of your day, and every ounce of your energy if you let them. And mom’s are (generally) happy to give everything we have. We give up sleep, money, style, and our time with basically everyone other than them, just to make their lives better.
But it’s easy to lose ourselves in the role of motherhood. I know from personal experience that being a mom can quickly take over every area of your life, leaving you in, essentially, a codependent relationship with your child. That’s not healthy for either of you. It’s important for moms to move past the guilt they feel and develop a life of their own.
Here are just a few ways that striking out on your own can benefit not only you, but also your child.
Independence. Our jobs as parents is to raise strong, capable, independent adults. It’s impossible for a child to become independent when their parent’s life is so wrapped up with theirs. And, let’s face it, kids grow up, move out, and move on.
Roll Model. We are always striving to be a positive role model for our kids, and that means living the way we hope they live. I want my daughter to see that women are capable, interesting, and passionate people…
Passion. What is life without passion? No, not that kind of passion. The kind of passion that makes you stay up to all hours of the night writing a blog post. The kind that makes your heart thump with joy when you see a new recipe to try. I want my daughter to feel that kind of passion for something – anything.
You are more than a Mommy. Before you had kids, you were a person. You had friends, and hobbies, and interests, and desires. You are still that person. Yes, it’s harder to do than it used to be, and you probably can’t do it all. But there’s no reason that you can’t still sing in the choir, volunteer at the dog shelter, or have a monthly girl’s night out.
Yes, the time you have with your kids is precious. But so is the time you have for yourself. Enjoy yourself. Love yourself. Be yourself.
