Parenting
Updated: May 12, 2023
Originally Published: May 12, 2023
After stepping into motherhood, many find their energy reserves depleted on a daily basis. Ordinary tasks that once seemed effortless—like paying bills or cleaning the kitchen—now feel like monumental challenges. You pour every ounce of energy into your child, your recovering body, and your partner, leaving little for anything else.
Finding the motivation to apply mascara or even put on real pants can feel like climbing a mountain. Coordinating schedules to meet friends can take hours of back-and-forth messages, and there’s always the lurking possibility of a sick child ruining your plans. Welcome to the reality of motherhood, where maintaining friendships demands effort.
Navigating the balance between being a mom and keeping friendships alive is no small feat. Yet, like many women, I’ve always cherished my friendships. After becoming a parent, my need for these connections evolved but never faded. In fact, I find myself relying on my friends more than ever.
There are stretches of time where weeks or even months go by without seeing my close friends. I recall the year my youngest was born when I only managed to meet up with my friends twice. It may not sound like much, or even a bit sad, but those two gatherings were enough to remind me that I am more than just a caretaker—someone who does laundry and wipes noses.
I missed my friends immensely, but they understood that my time was limited. This didn’t diminish my love for them or my need for their support. Meeting up with friends helped silence the incessant thoughts that filled my mind since motherhood began. Often, I would find myself having imaginary conversations with them while feeling too exhausted to engage in real-life dialogue. Nevertheless, I knew deep down that I needed these interactions.
Connecting with others beyond my family was revitalizing. Engaging in adult conversations felt refreshing, and sharing the daily struggles of motherhood with fellow moms was cathartic. There’s nothing more validating than hearing from another woman that you’re not alone in your thoughts and feelings.
My friendships are an irreplaceable component of my life. Even when I contemplate staying home, wrapped in a blanket with snacks, I always come alive again after spending even a brief hour with a friend over coffee.
I recognize the importance of seeing my friends in person occasionally. I rely on them for a boost, and I know they count on me for the same support. These friendships possess a unique magic that family members often can’t provide.
While my friendships may look different now that I’m a parent, they remain an essential part of my life. I am forever grateful for each friend and the solidarity they offer. If you’re navigating the challenges of parenthood and looking for connection, check out resources such as this article on intrauterine insemination for valuable insights, or explore fertility boosters for men to keep your journey on track.
In summary, while motherhood can make it challenging to find time for friendships, nurturing those bonds is vital for emotional well-being. Each interaction with friends can be a refreshing reminder of who we are beyond our roles as parents.