When I became a mom in 2023, my life was a whirlwind of emotions and new experiences. The first few weeks were a blur, with visitors coming by, family staying over, and friends dropping off meals. Our home was filled with excitement, and we always had someone around to help or just to share in the joy of our new baby. It felt like a little community around us, there to celebrate and support us.
But soon, life settled down, visitors went back to their routines, and friends became busy with their own lives. And there we were, just the three of us. My husband, our baby, and me. It was wonderful, but it was also a whole new level of challenging.
Building a Routine Around Baby’s Needs
Having a newborn, I quickly realized, means your schedule is no longer your own. Gone were the days of late-night movies or spontaneous date nights. The baby had a routine, and we had to keep up! He was up at 7 a.m. every morning, no matter how late we went to bed. If we didn’t stick to his bedtime schedule, he’d be overtired, and let’s just say, dinner would turn into a stressful night of crying. Even mealtime at home was tough because one of us had to watch the baby while the other ate.
It was exhausting and, at times, overwhelming. My husband pitched in whenever he could, but he was back at work, so most of the day-to-day baby care fell on me. Luckily, I had maternity leave for a year (thanks to the generous policies here in the Netherlands!), but I was still doing most of it alone.
Feeling Isolated as a New Mom
The days started blending together, each one feeling like a repeat of the last. And when friends did visit, I’d often hand them the baby just so I could catch up on chores that had piled up. I found myself feeling grumpy, overwhelmed, and even guilty for feeling this way. I’d snap at my husband, and he’d often end up sleeping in the living room to avoid another argument.
I didn’t like who I was becoming, and I started to wonder if this was just my life now. No breaks, no changes, just me and the baby, day in and day out. If you’re a new mom, I’m sure some of this might sound familiar.
The Moment of Realization
One day, I stumbled upon a social media post that hit me right in the heart. It talked about how fleeting these early years are, about how you’ll never know when it’s the last time your child will want you to tuck them in or play with them. And I cried. I mean, I really cried.
Reading that post helped me see things from a different perspective. I realized that these precious moments with my baby weren’t going to last forever. I wanted to make the most of them, to capture them somehow. And that’s when I started journaling.
Why Journaling Was a Game Changer
Journaling might sound simple, but for me, it became one of the most valuable tools during those early months of motherhood. Here’s why:
1. It’s a Lasting Gift for My Son
I began writing when my son was six weeks old, noting down every little thing he did. All the tiny moments we loved but couldn’t capture in a photo – they went into the journal. I wrote until his first birthday, and now I have this beautiful keepsake, a diary filled with love, that I can give him one day. I know it will be one of the most cherished gifts he’ll receive from me.
2. Journaling Gave Me Peace and Perspective
Journaling helped me shift my focus away from the frustration of being the primary caregiver. It made me appreciate all the small, joyful moments, and soon, I was able to look past the difficulties. Writing down the positive things brought a sense of calm and clarity, which was exactly what I needed. I even started experimenting with baking (sourdough, anyone?) and came up with healthy recipes for my son as he started weaning. Instead of feeling “stuck,” I felt a new sense of purpose.
3. It Made Me More Mindful
Every night, as I’d write in my journal, I found myself feeling calmer. It was a peaceful way to end my day, to release all the random thoughts and anxieties that otherwise would have kept me up. I also stopped the habit of scrolling through social media before bed – journaling was my new way to wind down.
This simple habit of jotting down my thoughts at night kept me grounded and more focused on the present, helping me to enjoy the moment without the noise of distractions.
Why Every New Mom Should Try Journaling
Journaling isn’t just for me; it’s for my son, too. It’s a gift he can look back on, filled with memories he might otherwise forget. But it’s also for me – for the peace, mindfulness, and perspective it’s brought to my life. It’s helped me appreciate these early years more deeply and has given me a renewed sense of joy in my role as a mother.
If you’re a new mom feeling overwhelmed, give journaling a try. Even if you don’t have time for a full entry, jot down a few lines about the day. You might be surprised by how much it helps. Plus, you’ll be creating something truly special that both you and your child will cherish for years to come.
