Over the past couple of months, I finally started to acknowledge the incredible number of changes that have happened in my life since Seth was born. The other day (out of nowhere), I had the thought that I wanted to get rid of everything in my wardrobe and start over. I’ve been having a hard time motivating myself to get dressed, and figuring out what kind of fashion content to create. Part of it is working from home in year three of a pandemic. But, I’m also having a major identity crisis.
Becoming a mom has changed my life in more ways than I can count. It’s amazing, but it’s also incredibly difficult to figure out who you are when so much of your identity is caring for this tiny human who needs you constantly.
There have been other changes too. Our physical space has changed to incorporate Seth, and both of us working from home. My job has changed, and continues to be in a state of flux. My body has changed (more on that another time). Several of our best friends moved out of state, and it’s hard to make new friends at this stage in life/time in the world. To be completely honest, I’ve been feeling pretty lonely.
Who am I beyond being Seth’s mom? What am I passionate about? How do I nourish that part of me? These are just some of the questions that I ask myself on a regular basis. I think anyone going through any sort of transition can probably relate. There are days that I feel lost. It’s a lot, and I’m super grateful for therapy and the support of Rob and my family.
I don’t have any ingenious advice for getting through an identity crisis. The one thing I’ve been doing is noticing what brings me joy, even the smallest things, and prioritizing them. I’m also trying to be gentle and patient with myself. Easier said than done, but really necessary right now.
We’ve all been living with a lot of unknown the past couple years. So much has changed for so many people. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like your priorities have shifted, you’re not alone. I wanted to write this post because there’s more to my new mom life than the adorable, smiley baby. Although, he does make the struggle worth it. More to come.
