Motherhood and me

Motherhood and me Motherhood today is severely devalued. Society tells women that having a baby wont change them. It fails big time at preparing women for the greatest challenges many will ever endure motherhood. Whilst its the most incredible experience and Im so in love with our daughter, I now do seriously wonder why no-one ever told me how it is? Im not inexperienced either Ive been a hands-on step-mum for 7 years, but I never lived the experience of becoming a mum. Ive worked in ridiculously high stressful roles, but nothing compares to having clocked onto this job 15 months ago. Fast forward past the birth, the sleep deprivation every single day that I never knew existed, the continual sickness (apparently its normal for little ones to get sick 12 times a year- thats once a month!), a severe wrist injury and extreme pain from holding my baby (might need surgery in a few months), the 3 day distress each time a tooth is cut (20 teeth equals 60 days of literally no sleep!), the trials and triumphs with breastfeeding (5+ hours a day early in the journey), the constant mess and unbelievable chaos, and last but not least, the financial stress. I recognise that everyones experience is different, some harder, some easier. I have a very supportive husband, and take my hat off to those women who dont. Why do we continue tell women they can have it all? While my little one, my family and my business is thriving (love #flexibleworking), at times it comes at a cost and Ive learnt a lot. I want to make a change for all mothers. What will it take to get society to better value the role of mothers (and fathers for that matter)? Im a Certified Becoming US facilitator, and help couples through the 8 steps of parenthood. If you are pregnant (or planning), a new mum or dad, or know someone who is, please share this video link. Id love to hear your experience! ____________ Vanessa is a founding member of the FlexCoach panel of career and executive coaches. You can find her profile  here