When I found out I was pregnant for the first time, I thought I had it all figured out. I envisioned the kind of mother I would be, the nurturing environment I would create for my child, and the effortlessly balanced lifestyle my family would enjoy. Looking back, I realize how naive I was. Here are nine things that highlight just how little I understood as a first-time mom-to-be.
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I’m So Exhausted.
Pregnant Me: I can barely sleep, waking up constantly to use the bathroom, then working all day at my desk job, with a brief hour-long nap in the evening.
New Mom Me: I’ve been awake for what feels like three days, subsisting on coffee while juggling 47 bottles, singing hundreds of lullabies, changing countless diapers, and cleaning up messes left by both my baby and my cat. I think I can smell colors at this point! -
Why Would Any Mom Take Out Crying Children?
Pregnant Me: Look at that poor mom struggling with her upset kids in the store. Why not just take them home?
New Mom Me: I now have immense respect for moms who can calmly take their screaming kids out for groceries. If you ever write a book on this, I’ll buy every copy! -
I’m Great at Time Management.
Pregnant Me: I’m an expert multi-tasker at work and will create a well-structured schedule for my family.
New Mom Me: Wait—when was the last time I showered? -
I Want to Be a Stay-at-Home Mom.
Pregnant Me: After years of working, I’m excited to embrace a new career as a stay-at-home mom filled with educational activities and park outings.
New Mom Me: I miss adult company and coffee breaks! My brain is too fried for educational activities, and going to the zoo feels like a monumental task. -
I’ll Sleep When the Baby Sleeps.
Pregnant Me: I need to rest so I can prepare for this busy baby. I’ll nap when he does.
New Mom Me: Why does my baby need to be attached to me 24/7? When he sleeps, I’m stuffing my face with leftover pizza while multitasking on the toilet. -
I’ll Get Back Into Shape Right Away.
Pregnant Me: No excuses! I’ll find time to exercise daily and maintain a healthy diet.
New Mom Me: It’s been four days of driving around town with my colicky baby while eating fast food. If we’re home, he cries, so I’m grabbing fries in the car—it’s a win-win! -
I Won’t Make Rash, Hormonal Decisions.
Pregnant Me: I’ve seen new moms cut their hair into that typical “new mom” style. I’ll just rock a ponytail.
New Mom Me: I’ve got the worst headache from this messy bun. I don’t have time to brush my hair, so off it goes! -
I Can’t Imagine Using TV as a Babysitter.
Pregnant Me: There’s no reason to plop a baby in front of the TV. There are so many fun activities to do instead.
New Mom Me: Here’s my list of valid reasons for screen time: I need to use the restroom, grab a snack, or just zone out for a few minutes. -
I’ll Never Get Out of Maternity Clothes.
Pregnant Me: Maternity pants are a dream! No buttons or zippers required!
New Mom Me: This is still true. My hips and deflated tummy make fitting into regular jeans a nightmare. But those maternity pants? They’re still my go-to, fitting perfectly and providing comfort all day.
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