All the things I lost through motherhood

The good, the bad, and the absolutely necessary.

Having children has undoubtedly changed me. Here are 13 things I’ve lost in the process.

My inhibitions.

If my children want me to dance in the middle of the supermarket, I’m doing it. I’m completely aware that this phase won’t last forever and soon they’ll probably find my breathing annoying.

My own time.

I can’t remember the last time I felt like nobody wanted a piece of me. And it’s not that I mind where my children are concerned, I prefer being with them than doing anything else. It’s just the fact that between parenting, running a team, being a good wife, and all my other roles, I’m always in demand and that can leave me feeling a little harassed at times.

Strong teeth.

One of the things no one tells you about motherhood is how your teeth might suffer. A mouthful of fillings and dental issues that only appeared post-pregnancy. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

My sense of style.

After nearly a decade of child-rearing and multiple pregnancy and postpartum body changes, I’m still figuring out how to dress this new version of me.

Being judgemental.

Motherhood has a way of softening you and can stop you being so quick to judge. Whether it's parenting choices or life in general - we’re all just trying to survive here.

Spontaneity.

Life after kids means saying to my friends, “let’s catch up” and then meeting them six months later has become the norm.

Sofa Sunday’s.

Duvet days filled with TV binges and endless snacks (probably while hungover) are a thing of the past.

Indifference around babies.

Before having my own, I had never held a baby (if posed pictures where a baby is rested on your lap on the sofa doesn’t count). I just wasn’t bothered and if anything, I was intimidated by them. Now, I’m wired differently. I can’t resist newborn cuddles and if I hear a baby crying, I want to go and give the parent a reassuring squeeze - it takes a lot of willpower to stay away.

My husbands’ undivided adoration.

We still love each-other very much, but we both agree - we prefer our kids now.

The ability (or desire) to stay out late.

What people don’t tell you is that the disturbed sleeps don’t always end after the newborn phase. Late nights just aren’t worth it anymore.

Fake tan Thursdays.

One of the realities of mum-life is your personal grooming takes a backseat. Setting myself up for a weekend of bronzed and glowing, with the weekly ritual that was fake tan application on a Thursday evening – very much a distant memory.

Sweating the small stuff.

I worry a lot less and about fewer things and worry a lot more about things that really matter to me. It’s easier and exhausting all at the same time.

Music taste.

Having ear worms from Disney and pop music songs come as standard.

I’m sure there are more.

Have you lost something of yourself through parenthood? Give me a ❤️ below.