Why Having Children (and a Full-Time Job) Ruins Your Life
I’m being cheeky, but it’s kind of true. Going from one child to two (28 months apart) and going from part-time work to full-time work has been so, so hard. I get nostalgic for the person I used to be. I know lots of people who say, “Having kids doesn’t have to change you!” For me, it’s been easier said than done.
I’ve been under so much stress that I’ve retreated into self-preservation mode. I’m less generous, less nurturing, less giving, less creative, less fun.
Oy, it’s painful to write all of that out!
Of course I’m generous and nurturing and giving toward my children. That’s part of why I’m in self-preservation mode. But even that isn’t enough. I’m giving them my oxygen mask, but they see me suffocating.
But it’s not all doomsday around here! I’m on the upswing, which is why all of this feels so much clearer to me.
Our Fall Break was really good for me. I had so much fun making our Halloween costumes and getting into crafting again. I used to make interesting things much more frequently, and it energizes me. I also found an awesome online parenting class that is giving me good insight into how to be more present for my children in order to help them feel more connected. I started physical therapy for my back, and I found a book focused on healthy eating that I want to try out in the next couple months.
I absolutely don’t regret having two children, and I don’t regret having them so close together. I just have to name out loud how hard it has been. I have absolute forgiveness for not being the best version of my self these past two years, and I’m grateful that I have a clear path for getting back on track!
3 Comments
Katie Zaback
You know on top of birthing two children you also "birthed" a school which is no small feat! And its also not your typical "full-time job". I imagine that also takes a lot.
Anaïs
Ooooh I totally see what you mean. Same here (without full-time job though). Thank you for sharing that feeling. Good luck!
saracotner
Thanks, Katie! It's getting better!
Anaïs: motherhood can take a toll on all of us in various ways–regardless of our job status! I honestly think my life is harder when I'm home with the boys during a break from school.