As a healthcare professional, I often find myself reflecting on the realities of parenting throughout the day. Mornings bring a surge of motivation and organization, while afternoons can feel like a different universe altogether. The energy I start with seems to dissipate as the clock ticks past noon, leading to a noticeable shift in my approach to parenting. It’s as if the afternoon transforms me into a less patient, less energetic version of my morning self.
Morning Dr.
Visualizes a day filled with educational activities for her child. A sensory play area? A visit to the local botanical garden? Volunteering at a nearby shelter? Maybe even a culinary exploration of different cultures with fun facts to boot! The possibilities seem endless.
Afternoon Dr.
Wonders if a bowl of enriched cereal qualifies as “educational.”
Morning Dr.
Exhibits profound patience during diaper changes, interpreting her child’s cries as a meaningful expression of vulnerability. She reassures him that it’s okay to feel frustrated, all while maintaining an aura of calm. “Don’t worry, my love. Mommy is here, and it’s just a diaper change.”
Afternoon Dr.
Takes a quick look and decides, “You seem fine—let’s keep chewing on that lamp cord. I need to check the oven timer for my next coffee break.”
Morning Dr.
Sticks to a strict schedule, using nap time to tidy up, wash bottles, and even squeeze in a quick workout. “If I’m lucky, I can even roast some tomatoes for dinner!”
Afternoon Dr.
Finds herself sitting on the edge of the bed, watching the monitor as her child creates chaos in the nursery. “Please just go to sleep!” she whispers fiercely, pulling at her hair in frustration.
Morning Dr.
Follows the mantra, “Look good, feel good.” She styles her hair into a trendy top bun, applies a little makeup, and feels ready to tackle the world. Her outfit, a chic athleisure ensemble, gives her a boost of confidence—she’s got this!
Afternoon Dr.
By 3 p.m., her once-stylish top bun has devolved into a messy knot. With sticky toddler hands on her face and Cheerios stuck to her feet, she finds herself multitasking—changing a diaper while swiping baby balm on her own chapped lips. When Grandma calls for a FaceTime chat, she answers, saying, “I put on foundation this morning, I swear!”
Morning Dr.
Monitors her child’s developmental milestones with great diligence. “He’s not waving yet—do I need to consult the pediatrician?” she frets, sending her spouse an email filled with articles on child development.
Afternoon Dr.
Just needs to escape the house for a breath of fresh air. She bumps into an old acquaintance and watches her child fail to respond to a fake wave. “Great job, kiddo! Mommy didn’t like her anyway.”
Despite our best intentions, the realities of parenting can be draining. The mornings are filled with potential, but the relentless cycle of diaper changes, feedings, and meal prep can leave us feeling exhausted by the afternoon. It’s a transformation that many of us go through, akin to becoming a different version of ourselves. Perhaps there’s a need for a new parenting approach that embraces the “Afternoon Dr.”—a refreshed version of ourselves by 2 p.m.
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Summary
Parenting oscillates between morning optimism and afternoon fatigue. While the morning version of a parent is organized and proactive, the afternoon counterpart often feels overwhelmed and less engaged. This shift highlights the challenges of maintaining energy and enthusiasm throughout the day, revealing the need for self-compassion and understanding in our parenting journeys.