A lot of people think their lives are over when they have kids. What many don’t understand is that yes, you will be dedicating everything to your new baby, but there are some things that never have to change!
Your relationship or marriage doesn’t have to suffer. And travelling and enjoying things that you used to may be limited, but they’re still possible. Absolutely. Having children is a gift of life! But it all depends on your decisions and what you make of life from here on out.
What doesn’t have to change when you have kids:
Travelling
You may not be able to travel the world like you dreamed, but you can still go on hiking adventures, discover new trails, and set out on an exciting road trips. All while bringing your family along with you. You’ll make new memories and the best part is that it’s free. You can still go on a family vacation as long as you budget accordingly to save up for the big trip.
Pampering Yourself
When your daughter becomes a toddler or older, it’s fun to paint each others nails, go to the salon or spa together and let her watch you put your makeup on. Get pampered together.
If you have a son, let your husband take him fishing or to the zoo for a day. Then you can take the time to pamper yourself. You always need to take time for you, to feel good about yourself.
Working Out
Just because you are a new parent doesn’t mean you can’t get back into shape. Part of getting that pre-baby body back involves working out and when you do it together with your kids, you are teaching them the importance of physical activity.
I love working out on my elliptical during my daughters’ nap time. You can still feel good about yourself as you did before having kids. It takes hard work and discipline, but it’s worth it.
Your Career
It’s normal to feel stressed out when it comes time to get back to work. You may experience the typical mom guilt that’s associated with leaving your child in the hands of someone else. But it’s what you need to feel good about yourself again. Being independent. Contributing to the home. You will always have your career to get back to after having a baby.
Thank goodness for daycare, preschool, and babysitters. Maybe you’ll choose to stay home with your kids and that’s okay too. There are many mother’s that have been successful while working right from home, and even homeschooling their children.
Money
When people think of having kids, they think about going bankrupt. Kids are expensive. But you need to learn to manage your money in a way that’s beneficial to your family. You’ll learn that the $40 designer outfit you bought for your six month old will end up in the trash because of the sauce and spit up stains you simply can’t get out.
You’ll learn that a cute outfit from Walmart will do the job. And you’ll find ways to save money and spend it on things that really matter; like saving for your child’s tuition, a bigger vehicle to accommodate your family, or that 5 star resort in Mexico you’ve been dreaming about.
It’s all about making responsible decisions from now on, and you will still be able to enjoy things you used to before having kids. Budget and save! Work towards your goals, while putting your family first. It takes work but it’s definitely doable. If you don’t have children and thinking about it, or you’re pregnant with your first baby, your life isn’t over! It’s just the beginning. And it’s all worth it in the end.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post! Leave any questions you have in the comments below, and I will be sure to help.
Michelle