Rediscovering Yourself
Rediscovering Yourself After Becoming a Mom: A Playful Journey Back to You
Hey mama! I know you've been busy. Between diaper changes, endless snack requests, bedtime routines, and everything in between, it's easy to feel like you've forgotten what it was like to be YOU before the title of "mom" came into play. But here’s the thing—you’ve always been you, just with a few extra layers of love, exhaustion, and wisdom. Rediscovering that version of yourself is a process, and it can take time. And guess what? That’s completely okay.
Let me put it this way: think of yourself like a flamingo. Yep, you heard me right—a flamingo! Flamingos, as beautiful as they are, actually lose their vibrant pink color when they give birth. Their bodies redirect energy toward nurturing their babies, so that flamingo hue fades for a while. But over time, as they get back into their groove—feeding, preening, living their life—their color comes back. Slowly but surely, they regain that stunning pink, and it's a gradual, natural process.
As a mom, you’re like that flamingo. When you become a mother, your whole world shifts. Everything you once knew about yourself might feel muted, like you're living in black and white for a while. But just like those flamingos, your vibrant self is still there—it just needs a little time, a little care, and a whole lot of bravery to let it shine again.
Embrace the Process
The process of rediscovering yourself can take time, and there’s absolutely no rush. It’s not a race to get back to “who you used to be” because, let’s face it, you’ll never be exactly who you were before kids, and that’s something to celebrate. You’re evolving. Embrace it!
It’s important to be kind to yourself. Don’t let the expectations of “getting back to normal” pressure you into a rush. The flamingo didn’t get its color back overnight, and neither will you. It’s okay to take it slow. If you’re feeling like you’ve lost a bit of yourself in the whirlwind of motherhood, know this: you are still there, and you have the power to rediscover the joy, creativity, and spark that’s uniquely yours.
A Fun List of Things to Try to Rediscover You
Now that we’ve embraced the process, let’s have a little fun with it! Here are some playful ideas to help you reconnect with yourself and ignite that inner fire. Some might feel a bit silly, others empowering—all of them are here to help you rediscover the spark that makes you, you.
> Take a Creative Class: Whether it’s painting, pottery, or even learning to juggle (seriously!), tap into your creative side. You’re allowed to be messy, fun, and imperfect in this space.
> Dance in Your Living Room: Put on your favorite song and let loose. The kitchen can wait. For a few minutes, get lost in the music and feel the rhythm.
> Start Journaling (Even if it’s just a doodle or two): Write down whatever comes to your mind. It’s a fantastic way to sort through your thoughts, find clarity, and just let it all out without judgment.
> Try Something Completely New: Ever thought about learning a new language? Taking a cooking class? Diving into photography? Pick something totally random and give it a shot. You may surprise yourself.
> Plan a Mini Solo Adventure: Even if it’s just to the local coffee shop for a couple of hours alone. Get out of the house, breathe, and let yourself remember what it feels like to be you, not just a mom.
> Get Crafty: Make something with your hands! Whether it’s knitting, scrapbooking, or DIY home decor, crafting allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment and creativity.
> Reconnect with Old Hobbies: Did you love to read, write, or play a musical instrument? Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to finish, or dust off that guitar in the closet. It’s like a reunion with an old friend.
> Start a “Me Time” Ritual: Whether it’s a bubble bath, meditation, or going for a walk without a stroller, find that small moment of quiet every day that’s just for you. It’s the little things that add up!
> Experiment with New Outfits or Makeup: Sometimes a new wardrobe or a bit of makeup is all it takes to help you feel like yourself again. Go ahead, try on something bold or fun and see how it makes you feel.
> Be Spontaneous: Take a different route home from work or grab a random dessert from a new place. Break free from the routine and let a little spontaneity into your life. You never know what might light you up!
Creativity is Your Superpower
The key to rediscovery is to embrace creativity. It doesn’t matter if you’re creating something tangible or just allowing space for new ideas. Be brave enough to try new things and see what feels right for you. When you let your creative juices flow, you start reconnecting with who you are beyond your role as a mom. Don’t be afraid to dream big—whether that’s in a new hobby or in the ways you approach the everyday.
You don’t have to be perfect at anything you try, and you don’t have to have it all figured out. The process of rediscovery is beautiful and messy and full of unexpected surprises. Trust the journey and be kind to yourself as you rediscover what lights you up.
Empowering Mantra to Live By
As you embark on this playful journey of rediscovery, remember: “I am allowed to grow, change, and become more of who I’m meant to be—without guilt or rush.”
Mama, you’re not only allowed to rediscover yourself, you deserve to. Take it one step at a time, explore what sparks joy, and be brave in the process. Just like the flamingo, your color will come back, and it will be even more beautiful than before. You’ve got this! 🌸