“From the outside looking in, you can never understand it. From the inside looking out, you can never explain it.” As I reflect on my journey, it’s hard to believe it was only four years ago that I graduated with my degree. Fast forward to today, and being a wife and a mom has transformed my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Gone are the days of sipping wine from a bag; now, I opt for a nice bottle while I pick up toys and snuggle with my husband on the couch instead of downing shots and dancing to catchy pop hits.
Throughout my college years, I was often dubbed the “mom” of my friend group—not just because I carried around Advil or showed up with ice cream during tough times, but because nurturing seemed to be in my nature. During my pregnancy, I immersed myself in classes, literature, and online mom groups, probably more than I’d like to admit. Now, as I navigate the challenges of raising a 14-month-old, I’ve come to a remarkable realization: my sorority experience has profoundly prepared me for motherhood.
You might be picturing the typical stereotypes often portrayed in movies, but those perceptions are just that—stereotypes. Here are nine valuable lessons from my sorority that directly translate to the beautiful chaos of motherhood:
- I Can Tolerate Loud Noises.
Nothing compares to the energy of 150 girls before a meeting, except maybe a toddler’s playtime explosion. My ability to command attention amidst the noise has proven invaluable, especially when wrangling a group of rambunctious kids. - Singing Is Key.
The songs from my sorority days still resonate with me, and I often find myself singing them to my child. Whether it’s “If You’re Happy and You Know It” or any classic Disney tune, those catchy melodies are now part of our daily routine. - All-Nighters? No Problem.
Surviving all-nighters in college and as a parent are different beasts, but they share a common thread: I’ve learned to function on little sleep. Thanks to my sorority days, I can face the day after a sleepless night with a smile—even if I still need to rely on dry shampoo to look presentable. Pro tip: stock up on dry shampoo before the third trimester! - Tradition Matters.
The values and traditions ingrained in my sorority shaped my understanding of community and family. I’m eager to establish traditions that my child will cherish, carrying forward the legacy of love and support that my sorority instilled in me. - Crafting Skills Are Essential.
I’ve always had a knack for creativity, whether it’s making decorations for birthdays or Halloween costumes. My past crafting experiences have taught me the importance of creativity in parenting, and I can’t wait to dive into future projects with my little one. - Navigating Social Dynamics.
Catty girls exist everywhere, from sorority life to the playground. My experiences taught me how to handle competition and negativity with grace, skills I rely on when dealing with other parents. - There’s Strength in Community.
Not every woman in motherhood is competitive. The support from friends and fellow moms—many of whom are my sorority sisters—makes the journey easier. It’s comforting to have a tribe to celebrate victories and navigate challenges together. - Team Spirit Matters.
From the moment I pledged, I embraced my sorority’s symbols and spirit. This enthusiasm carried over when I became a mom, as I proudly sport my child’s initials just as I did my sorority letters. Zero shame in my game! - Fashion Flexibility.
My sorority wardrobe paved the way for my current “mom look.” Wearing oversized t-shirts and comfy shorts feels just as acceptable now as it did on campus. Plus, I think the barista at Starbucks is impressed when I actually put on mascara!
In summary, my sorority experience has gifted me with invaluable memories, lifelong friendships, and a skill set that’s essential for tackling the adventure of motherhood. If you’re interested in more insights into fertility and parenting, check out our other blog post here. For those looking to explore options for at-home insemination, check out Make a Mom, a reliable source for kits. And for comprehensive information on donor insemination, visit American Pregnancy.
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