When faced with one of the most transformative experiences of our lives—motherhood—we often wing it. Why?
When I saw the two lines on the pregnancy test, my world changed. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about me anymore—it was about us. I dived into baby prep mode: learning how to swaddle, picking out the perfect nursery wallpaper, and obsessing over the size of the baby each week (a lime at three months, a grapefruit at six by the way).
But here’s what no one told me: amidst the excitement, I forgot someone very important—me. And I’m not alone. Did you know that only 11% of women make a plan for themselves beyond birth? Think about that for a moment. We spend weeks preparing hospital bags, attending antenatal classes, and organising baby showers, but we rarely stop to consider how to prepare for the new woman we are about to become.
In life, we rehearse for job interviews, take courses to grow as leaders, and meticulously plan for career milestones. Yet when faced with one of the most transformative experiences of our lives—motherhood—we often wing it. Why? Because society conditions us to focus solely on the baby, when in reality, we need to focus on ourselves too.
Pregnancy is the perfect time to pause and ask, “Who am I becoming?” It’s an opportunity to know yourself more intimately—to explore your needs, values, and strengths. This awareness can be the foundation that carries you through sleepless nights, unpredictable emotions, and the physical and mental marathon of new motherhood. It’s not about controlling the chaos but equipping yourself with a toolkit to find grace, joy, and resilience in the journey ahead.
I was part of the 89%. I planned for birth, not for life beyond it. When we brought our baby home, we stood in the kitchen and looked at each other, asking, “What do we do now?” I couldn’t have anticipated the changes to my body, mind, and soul. While I don’t believe we can predict everything, I’ve learned that knowing yourself deeply—your needs, passions, and values—makes all the difference. The reality is that pregnancy isn’t just about preparing for the baby—it’s also about preparing for the profound changes you’re about to experience.
“We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change” Sheryl Sandberg
Change is an intrinsic part of becoming a mother. As you transition into this new role, you may encounter a whirlwind of emotional, physical, and practical changes that redefine your routines and perspectives. Embracing this transformation means acknowledging and accepting the evolving nature of your life, from adjusting to new responsibilities and routines to nurturing a deep bond with your baby. Whilst change can be challenging, it also presents an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. By approaching this journey with flexibility and an open heart, you can navigate the changes with resilience, finding new strengths and joys in the beautiful evolution of motherhood.
So, what does a plan for motherhood actually look like? It starts with getting curious.
To continue reading become a member for FREE here
Comments