Not too long ago, I woke up with a determination to be fully engaged with my kids for the entire day. I was genuinely interested in every toy they brought over, paying attention to their every concern about a cartoon character’s fate. I listened, played along, and went all out to be the mom of the year. By the time night fell, I was utterly drained.
Sure, my little ones are nearing two and three years old, and let’s face it, two toddlers can exhaust anyone. But that wasn’t the whole story.
Some might roll their eyes at my pride for simply spending quality time with my children. After all, I’m their mom—am I not supposed to do that every day? What’s the fuss about? Am I fishing for a trophy? Well, I might be, but it’s not for that reason.
What made that day particularly special—and utterly exhausting—is that I’m an introvert. There’s a common misconception that introverts are anti-social, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We can be social butterflies when we need to be. I don’t shy away from gatherings or wish I were alone 24/7. Like everyone else, I need social interaction.
The essence of being an introvert lies in the necessity for solitude to recharge. Many people thrive in bustling environments like parties or shopping malls, but for us introverts, it’s just the opposite. Our quiet moments are sacred. We rely on stillness and solitude to refresh our minds and bodies.
So, on that day when I focused entirely on my kids, attending to their every whim, I expended every bit of energy I had. From dawn until dusk, I had no moments of peace, and by the time they were tucked in, I was too worn out to even recharge myself.
It’s a constant struggle. I want to be the attentive mom who cherishes every fleeting moment, cheering on every song my daughter performs and celebrating every puzzle piece my son successfully slots into place. I want to laugh at their jokes and engage in their games.
But I also need to care for myself, and that requires breaks that aren’t always feasible. Some days, naps are nonexistent, and my husband is tied up with work or school. Other days, I push through emotional fatigue just to reach bedtime, weighed down by the guilt of glancing at the clock while yearning for a moment of solitude after they drift off to sleep.
Being a mom is the most incredible job in the world—rewarding and magical. However, for introverts, it’s a daily quest to balance being present for our kids while trying to preserve our sanity.
If you’re an introverted mom, you’re not alone in this. It’s perfectly fine to crave some alone time. It’s okay to feel completely spent after a long day of keeping your little ones happy and healthy. Remember, you’re not alone… unless you want to be.
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Summary:
Being an introverted mother presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to balancing time spent with children and the need for personal downtime. Engaging fully with kids can be draining, yet it’s essential to find a balance that allows for self-care. It’s okay to seek moments of solitude amidst the demands of motherhood.