Becoming a parent is a fulfilling journey, but sometimes it can seem challenging to remember who you were yourself while looking after a child. Reconnecting with the person you were before your parenthood is an essential part of your self care. Rediscovering your pre-parent self plays a crucial role in enhancing your personal development, self-improvement, and emotional well-being. To provide the best care to your child and your family, you have to first care for yourself.
Recognise Your Hidden Interests
The first step is to do some reflection and figure out what hobbies and passions can bring you joy. Reading, painting, sports or any creative outlet, try to incorporate them again into your life. You don’t have to dive back in full-force, you can ease yourself back into it, because even small moments spent towards rebuilding a sense of self can massively change the quality of life. While your child is asleep or busy in solitary play or group play, you can use that time to focus on your hobbies.
Once you have figured out a way to incorporate your hobbies in your weekly routine, you and your child can even enjoy spending a ‘hobby hour’ together.
Allocate Time for Yourself
In the journey of self improvement and parenting, carving time for yourself is non-negotiable as well. Scheduling time for yourself is not just luxury—it’s a necessity. While it might seem like a luxury, bearing certain hours in your schedule can greatly change your mind and body for the better – me-time is core for self-care.
Reconnect with Friends
Friends often know the “real” you—before parenthood reshaped your priorities. Reconnecting with friends can ignite memories of your past and remind you of the person you were before you became a parent. Have conversations which take a trip down memory lane, and do things together that you used to enjoy. In doing so, you can become one with your inner self.
Practice Self-Reflection
Setting time aside for self-reflection is crucial to achieving personal development. Take time to reflect on your goals, values, and your aspirations outside of your parental role. By doing this, you can lead a much more enriched life without letting go of your responsibilities.
Establish Boundaries
To avoid burnouts and overwhelming feelings, it’s important to set boundaries between your parenting role and your personal time. Ensure that both you and your partner know how to balance the family requirements and your individual wants.
Don’t Feel Guilty
It’s alright to nurture your individuality, even as a parent. Embracing the idea and taking care of yourself makes you a better parent and person overall. Personal development and self-care aren’t selfish—they’re essential for your well-being.
Conclusion
By prioritizing your growth and well-being, you can rediscover the person you were before you became a parent. To learn more about balancing work and parenting, explore our resources and tips on our Parenting Prep Podcast.
