As a new mom I’m finding that I’m losing myself, I forget things all the time, the love for cooking that I used to have is leaving because I keep messing up the meals I make🥺 I’ve always felt that with cooking you can tell how someone feels when eating it. But idk that’s just me, I’ve burned rice a couple of times and chicken, and under- seasoned or over seasoned. I even feel like I don’t know what to make anymore, when before I used to just look in the fridge and see what I had and then just think of something and now I can’t. I left oatmeal in the microwave for I think 2 days forgetting about it, don’t judge me for using the microwave sometimes when having a baby you need something quick. Anyway so me forgetting myself and staying up at night or not sleeping until 2 or 3 in the mornings. I have to do it on my own because my husband works all day, he has 2 jobs and provides for us. I have family and I have a village but I feel like they want to help with the baby, but I don’t need help with the baby. It’s the house I need help with, the constant washing dishes and bottles. My husband couldn’t take leave because he didn’t meet the requirements in both his jobs and leave here in cali is a joke. He can still take it but it has to be until Septemberish but he’s already missing moments with the baby. I’m having trouble producing milk so I have to give my baby formula which I know it’s not bad but I wanted that bond with my baby. Oatmeal and coconut water and eating protein is not helping, and then having a consistent schedule is hard too. Anyway that’s my little vent for today😅
Becoming a new mom often brings unexpected challenges that can make you feel like you’re losing a part of yourself. From my own experience, the exhaustion of sleepless nights combined with the constant demands of caring for a newborn can affect not only your mood but also simple daily activities like cooking. The frustration of burning meals or forgetting to season properly isn’t uncommon—it’s a sign of how much your brain is juggling. One thing I found helpful was allowing myself grace; accepting that it's okay to make mistakes and that my love for cooking would return when I felt more rested. Quick meal ideas that require minimal prep, like overnight oats or easy one-pot dishes, helped me maintain nutrition without added stress. Breastfeeding challenges can be disheartening too. I struggled with milk production, which led me to rely on formula. Although I initially felt guilty, I realized that feeding my baby, regardless of the method, is an act of love and bonding. Supplementing with formula doesn't diminish the connection—it’s about what works for your family. Another important lesson is asking for the right kind of help. While friends and family often want to assist with the baby, sometimes the household chores like washing dishes and bottles become overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs clearly. Even small breaks can recharge your spirit. Lastly, establishing a flexible but consistent schedule, especially around sleep and feeding times, can gradually restore a sense of control. It won’t be perfect overnight, but with patience, you’ll find your rhythm again. Remember the quote from the image: “We lose ourselves a little when we become mothers. But that’s okay. Mothers are awesome at finding lost things.” This sentiment truly resonates with the journey of motherhood—rediscovering yourself amidst the chaos, one step at a time.
