Finding Freedom in Motherhood

Before having my daughter, I wasn’t sure I wanted kids. My dreams had revolved entirely around my career and travel (...and living in New York). I was so fearful kids meant abandoning all of that. That it had to be one or the other.

Maybe it was due to the way motherhood had been portrayed to me? Or all of the “you better ___ before kids come” statements I heard? Either way, I was convinced my freedom would end with kids.

Fast-forward three years, and can I tell you the most ironic thing? I’ve never felt freer.

Let me be clear — logistics have changed (though even at 3 years old, I’m seeing this get easier!) – but I can still make time for the things I’m passionate about.

My 20s were (stereotypically) plagued with questions about my identity and "calling," always striving towards something. Having Mila put so much into perspective.

I look at a little girl with such inherent worth, and I’m reminded that the same is true for me. The freedom this has given me allows me to enjoy what’s in front of me, and not put too much pressure on things that don’t ultimately matter. It also fuels me to make the most out of life.

I’m still figuring so much out, but I can happily say Mila has traveled the world with me, we regularly paint side-by-side, and my career is so life-giving (and I love that she gets to witness that).

If you wrestled with this too — I’d love to hear how your journey has evolved. If you’re expecting your first (or are newly postpartum), I hope this encourages you to hold onto all your passions and see the sweet ways kiddos make them even better.

Something we say here at Zoe is, "It takes a village to raise a mother," and I’m grateful for all the encouragement I’ve received along the way.

PS - If travel is a passion that you (like me!) hope to share with your kids, you might like these tips for new parent travel and best toys to pack that have helped me!