My 23-year-old pregnancy was a shock. My husband and I hadn’t planned it, but it felt like the world had aligned for us. This unexpected change of circumstances was the nicest thing that ever occurred to us. We feel blessed by our child. I’ve learned that mother young stereotypes aren’t always true.
People think early 20s women can’t be good mother young. They seem to think we should still be exploring life, enjoying our independence, going to parties, finishing school, and starting careers. Some argue that having children early on puts you at a disadvantage because your twenties are meant for self-discovery (and possibly finding love and getting married), job improvement, and social advancement.
These prejudices explain why many people congratulated me on my pregnancy but also asked if I was ready for this new responsibility. Unfortunately, someone suggested I shouldn’t keep the baby, as if that was the only way to save my life.
Life rarely goes as planned. Reality often defies our attempts to control time and mould our lives. My early twenties were perfect for motherhood. Mother young has changed me in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
It’s fascinating how perceptions differ from reality. Mother young don’t have to sacrifice personal growth or goals. It’s enhanced my life and taught me about resilience, love, and our incredible ability to adjust to new roles and responsibilities. I wouldn’t change my parenthood journey, regardless of others’ assumptions.
Truths about being a mother young
1. It doesn’t “ruin” young adulthood
Being a mum while most of my friends were in college or starting professions was unusual. I was parenting a child while my peers were deciding their futures. It’s amazing how society establishes milestones we’re required to attain within particular timescales, but meeting those expectations can be taxing. Nobody’s path is the same.
Having a child in your early twenties—or any age—requires sacrifices and new behaviours. I confirm. I don’t regret starting my mom path early.
By the time I had my child, I had spent several years post-college and begun investigating professional options. Becoming a mother young helped me figure out who I was and what I desired. Motherhood focused my passions and introduced me to new ones. I used to travel the world alone, but now I have a beautiful spouse and an amazing child to see the world with. You know? I’m falling in love with my amazing self.
Having a child in your early twenties doesn’t imply missing out on mother young adulthood. It has brought me joy and excitement. It’s made my life more adventurous than I ever dreamed. It’s about letting experience shape your path.
I wouldn’t change my life, even though it’s different from my friends’. I’m enjoying my unique journey.
2. You still have a lot to learn
You know? I can relate, as can many others. I’m 24 and a new mum, currently figuring out adulting and parenting. Having a child changed my perspective on my maturity.
It’s funny how having a parent makes you reconsider your past. My childhood wounds I believed were healed? They affected me more than I imagined. But you know? It’s been a blessing since it’s allowed me to break the pattern of family troubles. My baby should grow up without all that baggage.
I’m more than a mother young . I’ve discovered new parts of myself via parenthood. This whole experience has taught me how to be a wife, daughter, sister, and person. Despite its challenges, I wouldn’t change it. I’m excited to see how it makes me stronger and more resilient.
3. Your kid can become your greatest motivation
My child no longer motivates me. Before having a child, I was an ambitious, go-getter lady.
I never expected my son to save me from life difficulties or define me.
He has impacted my life in more ways than I can imagine—unexpectedly, but greatly valued. Knowing that I am his foundation in this large, difficult, and uncertain world inspires me to improve every day.
4. Life goes on
Isn’t it funny how so many people automatically assume that once you become a parent, all your personal dreams and ambitions take a back seat? I’ve always wondered about that. Why does having a child mean that everything else in your life has to come to a screeching halt? I mean, just because I’m a mother young doesn’t mean I’ve stopped pursuing my passions and goals, whether I’m with my child or not.
It’s been an incredible journey for me as a mother young. I’ve managed to kickstart an amazing career, which is pretty fulfilling on its own. But that’s not all – I’ve also delved into self-discovery, learning so much about who I am and what truly ignites my passions. And guess what? I haven’t had to give up traveling or spending quality time with my friends and expanding my network. Oh, and my marriage? It’s as loving and vibrant as ever. Taking care of myself hasn’t gone out the window either. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve embraced my calling and purpose in life.
You see, life doesn’t just hit the brakes after you have kids. Having a child isn’t the end of the world; it’s the beginning of an entirely new one. The world keeps on turning, and as it orbits around the sun, my love for my son grows stronger with every single day.
To all the mother young out there who are in their early twenties, we’re here to shatter those odds stacked against us. We’re carrying the badge of motherhood with pride, and at the same time, we’re blazing trails in our careers, nurturing our hobbies, and chasing after all those dreams we hold dear. Contrary to the misguided notion that we lose our sense of self once we become parents, we’re proving that idea wrong every day. We’re carving out a name for ourselves, and right now, that name is “mama” – a title that fills us with a profound sense of pride.
This brings me to the power of sharing our stories, which is exactly what the concept of “Motherly Stories” is all about. These are tales told in the first person, ranging from 500 to 1000 words, that capture the wisdom and insights gained through our journey of motherhood. These stories are more than just words; they’re a lifeline for other women who might be struggling or feeling alone. There’s no judgment here; just a safe space where we can draw inspiration from one another’s experiences. These stories are a beacon of hope, a reminder that we’ve got this, even when the going gets tough.
In a world where the noise of stereotypes and misconceptions can be deafening, Motherly Stories stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of mothers. We’re proving that nurturing our own identities alongside our children isn’t just possible – it’s absolutely essential. These stories ripple with meaning, hope, and the reassurance that we’re never alone on this journey. So, let’s keep sharing, keep inspiring, and keep embracing the incredible journey that is motherhood. After all, the world keeps turning, and so do we.