Making the transition from a full-time career woman to a full-time homemaker can be challenging at best. You go through withdrawal from your former lifestyle and a series of emotions. You could flit from loneliness to regret and shame as you watch your former colleagues climb up the ladder you abandoned. However, sometimes we just need to take a step back and say “no more.” Here are some tips on how you, too, can put your old life on hold and focus on your new one.
Put your “old” life on hold.
The only way to focus 100% of your time and energy on something (children, business, etc.) is by putting the other thing(s) on pause. Let’s say you’re a graphic designer; it may be best to put that on hold until your kids are a little older. If you’re a blogger, it may be that you let go of the idea of being featured on every single blog in your niche. Just focus on creating good content for yourself instead of everyone else.
Let go of the guilt.
There will always be something more we can do, always be something we should’ve done, and always someone who doesn’t seem to have it as hard as us. However, none of these things matter because what matters most right now are the little people in your life. Just like you were there for them when they needed an ear or a hand, they’re here for you now. They need your love, time, and patience just as much. From first-hand experience, I know how difficult it is to let go of something you worked so hard to get. Still, if the reason is right (aka a child), then everything else will fall into place.
Recognize that this “pause” is temporary.
If you’ve decided to put your old life on hold, it’s because you believe they won’t stay kids forever. And when they do grow older, you can jump back into the game. It may not be soon (it could be anywhere from five years to ten), but once they’re grown up, I’m pretty sure you’ll do just fine in whatever direction your business takes you.
Embrace the change.
Sometimes we’re so focused on what defines us that it’s hard to let go of who we were before kids. I suspect there are many women out there who would love your shoes if you chose to give them away or wear flip-flops instead. Life changes, and sometimes those changes can be for the better. In fact, know that it gets better. It is a gratifying feeling when you look back on what you’ve done for your family in comparison.
Realize that your life before kids is not gone forever.
We always have our memories, and we should never take them or ourselves so seriously to believe everything has to stay in the past. It’s okay to look back on good times. I assure you that one day, you’ll look back on your life as a mom and wonder where the time went. Don’t be afraid to tap into your old life.
So there you have it, ladies, five easy steps to putting that old life of yours on hold and let go of the negative energy. If you’re struggling with letting go or just need some motivation, let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you.
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