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Every couple that becomes a parent has heard that things are going to change. If you’ve read blogs and books and spoken to experienced parents, everyone tells you that life changes after pregnancy, even more so after having a baby. Apart from bodily changes that a woman goes through, do things drastically change? A woman undergoes several transformations. Her feet might swell up, her back and legs may become weaker, her skin might improve, and her hair might grow. And, of course, the much-coveted pregnancy glow that every woman experiences comes with a cute belly bump! But often, the changes that occur during pregnancy are just the beginning and can go back to normal after a while. However, once your baby arrives, some of the things in your life that change might stick. Read this article to know more.
No, we are not talking about your body or your routine. We are talking about YOU! Several metaphors are used to describe parenting, and they all seem to fit. From calling it a walk in the clouds to going to war, every metaphor is an apt representation of parenthood. But what does going to war mean? Quite literally, it could mean that your surroundings become a war zone because of the mess. The consistent sleepless nights become a difficult endeavor, and you lose a little bit of yourself each time something new comes up with your baby.
Who Is To Blame?
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If you’re wondering who is the evil one in this equation, there is none. Life changes after a baby arrives, and that’s just the way it is. Your priorities change, you let go of certain traits of your personality, and you probably feel like you’re in constant war with your old habits and new self. You were perhaps someone who liked to keep her room, home, and backyard spick and span. But with a baby in your arms, you don’t care about that anymore. If you can find some space to eat a meal without having a poopy diaper by your side, that’s a good day.
You might find your old self telling your new self that it’s not something that you should compromise on. You probably even tried to make cleaning a priority for a few days but let’s be real, it’s way too exhausting and adds unnecessary stress and pressure on new parents. Your baby needs you, and more importantly, you need you.
There are several things you have to take care of — new responsibilities, added chores, unending baby duties, and you probably get these done with an irregular sleep cycle. That takes a lot of energy and effort. Keeping your home neat and tidy will take a backseat when you have a baby, and that’s normal. There is no need to beat yourself up about it.
Embrace And Let Go
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If your older self is holding you to these unrealistic standards, tell yourself it’s okay to let it go. Being a parent is challenging, and the last thing you need is to place expectations on yourself that are far-fetched. Cut yourself some slack and try to enjoy the sweet moments of bliss you find within your hectic schedule. They might be very few, but if you don’t appreciate them now, the moment will pass, and it’ll be too late.
Watch out for your baby’s first laughter when they grab your finger with their tiny arms or start to understand you — these are some moments that you will cherish forever. But if you get caught up in the tiny details of your busy life, you’ll miss the big moments with your baby. It’s okay to let go of some old parts of yourself, and it’s okay to enjoy new pleasures of life. You are not alone, and you are doing great!
