I remember going to a professional development event and getting into a conversation with other teachers about being a parent. At that point I was really struggling with the change in my life, and I very frankly said that it was hard, I enjoyed very little of it, and I don't know if I want another kid. One person at the table was so taken aback by what I said -- I immediately regretted my candid answer. Later on someone said to me privately that they were happy someone was willing to be honest about struggling in this phase of parenting.
My kid is 3.5, and I do think so much has gotten easier. I find myself looking back at the earlier stages (mostly before 14 months) thinking that I must have had a bad attitude or something - like it's my fault I struggled as much as I did. I *know* that isn't true, but that persistent guilt is there.
I deeply relate to and appreciate what you have shared here. Thank you.
I remember going to a professional development event and getting into a conversation with other teachers about being a parent. At that point I was really struggling with the change in my life, and I very frankly said that it was hard, I enjoyed very little of it, and I don't know if I want another kid. One person at the table was so taken aback by what I said -- I immediately regretted my candid answer. Later on someone said to me privately that they were happy someone was willing to be honest about struggling in this phase of parenting.
My kid is 3.5, and I do think so much has gotten easier. I find myself looking back at the earlier stages (mostly before 14 months) thinking that I must have had a bad attitude or something - like it's my fault I struggled as much as I did. I *know* that isn't true, but that persistent guilt is there.
I deeply relate to and appreciate what you have shared here. Thank you.