“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 through life, it’s astounding how quickly time has flown. Though I graduated just four years ago, the experiences of marriage and motherhood have made those years feel much longer. Gone are the days of sipping wine from a box; now I opt for a budget-friendly bottle as I spend my evenings tidying up toddler toys and snuggling with my husband, rather than downing whiskey shots and dancing to the latest pop hits.
I’ve always been the “mom” of my friend groups—not just because I carried the Advil or was the one to show up with ice cream during heartbreaks, but because nurturing felt like an innate part of who I am. During my pregnancy, I immersed myself in books, classes, and online parenting forums, and now, as a mother to a lively 14-month-old, I find myself reflecting on how my sorority experience equipped me for this journey. You might picture the typical stereotypes associated with sororities, but the truth is, I gleaned invaluable lessons that apply directly to motherhood. Here are nine ways my sorority life prepared me for my role as a mom:
- I Can Handle Extreme Noise Levels.
There’s nothing quite like the cacophony of 150 girls before a chapter meeting, which rivals the chaos created by a toddler wreaking havoc with toys. My time in the sorority taught me to not only withstand such noise but also to command attention amidst the clamor. - Singing is Key.
I still cherish the songs from my sorority days, frequently belting them out for my child. Whether it’s “If You’re Happy and You Know It” or any Disney classic, those catchy tunes have prepared me for daily musical entertainment. - All-Nighters are Manageable.
Surviving all-nighters in college was a feat, and now, parenting has its own brand of sleepless nights. Thanks to my sorority training, I’ve mastered functioning on minimal sleep, even if I now prefer quality wine over boxed options. - Tradition Matters.
My sorority was built on long-standing traditions, and I appreciate how these rituals fostered a sense of belonging. I aim to create similar traditions within my family, understanding their significance in shaping our values and memories. - Crafting is Essential.
Though I’m no artist, my creativity shines through in crafting. With a toddler, my projects are basic for now—think Halloween costumes and birthday decorations—but I look forward to future science experiments that will be epic. - Navigating Social Dynamics.
From sorority rivalries to the playground, I’ve learned to handle difficult personalities. The skills I acquired dealing with backhanded compliments and catty behavior have equipped me to face challenges, including those in the PTA. - Support is Crucial.
Not every woman is competitive, and I’ve found a supportive community among fellow moms. Having friends—both those with children and those without—makes navigating motherhood much easier and more enjoyable. - Team Spirit Always.
From the moment I joined my sorority, I embraced my letters. Now, as a mom, I proudly wear my child’s initials and eagerly purchase all the “mama bear” gear. There’s no shame in celebrating this new chapter. - Comfort Meets Style.
My sorority wardrobe has seamlessly transitioned to my mom wardrobe. I’m perfectly fine rocking oversized T-shirts and running shorts—what was once acceptable on campus is still my go-to look now.
Reflecting on my sorority experience, I realize it has provided me with cherished memories, lifelong friendships, and essential skills that prepare me for the beautiful chaos of motherhood. For more insights into pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on fertility.
In summary, my time in a sorority has been instrumental in shaping my approach to motherhood, teaching me valuable lessons about support, tradition, and resilience. As I continue this journey, I find comfort in knowing that the bonds formed and skills acquired in my sorority days are now guiding me through the joys and challenges of parenting.