Photo by any_tka via Canva
A Fresh Start
There’s something about the end of the year that makes us pause. We look back at the chaos, the laughter, the tears, and the growth — and we start to wonder what we want to carry forward. For me, motherhood has been the biggest teacher, and as I step into a new year, I want to focus less on perfection and more on joy.
Looking Back at 2025
As the year comes to an end I have been thinking about the last year, year of 2025. It was a rollercoaster in the good and bad way at the same time. We had pretty good moments and pretty bad moments. Our baby is almost 15 months old and I think the first year of challenges is finally passing. The first year of postpartum was a really tough one and I am happy to be over with it, and to use the experience for my life.
Being a mother taught me a lot and in many ways I wasn’t ready for a few things. I feel I am enjoying motherhood much more than I did a year ago. I remember how anxious I felt about everything in the first few months. But now I think I have a hold of it. My body is bouncing back too — I’ve heard it takes almost two years to feel “normal” again after delivery, and I believe it.
Lessons from Motherhood
Motherhood has taught me more than I ever imagined. One of the biggest lessons is that I don’t need to be perfect. My child doesn’t need a “perfect mom” — just a present, loving one. That realization has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders.
I’ve also learned that patience is everything. Babies grow and change so quickly, and what feels like a struggle today often passes before you know it. I remember being so anxious about sleep schedules, feeding routines, and milestones in the first months. Now I see that my baby finds his own rhythm, and my role is to guide and support, not control every detail.
Another lesson is about trusting myself. In the beginning, I doubted every decision — was I feeding him enough, was I holding him too much, was I doing things “right”? Over time, I’ve realized that a mother’s intuition is powerful. I know my child better than anyone else, and listening to that inner voice has made me more confident.
I’ve also learned the importance of asking for help. Motherhood can feel isolating, but I don’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s leaning on my partner, family, or friends, or even just admitting I need a break, I’ve realized that accepting support doesn’t make me less capable — it makes me stronger.
And finally, I’ve learned to find joy in the small things. A giggle, a cuddle, a messy play session — these are the moments that matter most. The house doesn’t need to be spotless, the laundry doesn’t need to be folded right away. What my child will remember is the love and laughter we share.
Realistic Resolutions for the New Year
Next year I just want to have a few resolutions. I don’t want to go crazy and set goals I can’t accomplish. Here’s what I’m focusing on:
- Self-care: This is really important for moms. Don’t feel guilty — you need this mentally and emotionally. You can’t run on empty batteries.
- Try something fun or new each month: It can be small, like changing the route of your daily walk, visiting a new playground, going on a hike, or trying a café. Anything that makes you feel more alive and happy.
- Slowing down: The house doesn’t need to look spotless. Toys will be on the floor again in two seconds anyway. I don’t want to clean like a maniac and end up resentful. Moms deserve breaks too.
- Simplifying: Less clutter, fewer commitments, more focus on what matters most.
- Balancing friendships: Friends are important, but too many social events can be draining. For me, family time is the highest priority now. I’d rather have a few quality friendships than spread myself too thin.
Finding Joy in the Everyday
Motherhood this year reminded me that joy often comes in the simple, everyday moments — bedtime stories, messy play, or cuddles after a long day. My hope for next year is to bring more of that joy into our lives, with less pressure to be “perfect.”
An Invitation to Other Moms
This past year has reminded me that motherhood is full of ups and downs, but also full of growth. My resolutions aren’t about perfection — they’re about creating space for joy, balance, and connection.
I’d love to hear from other moms: What did motherhood teach you this year? What are your hopes or resolutions for the new one? Sharing our stories helps us feel less alone and reminds us that we’re all figuring it out together.
Photo by realism-art via Canva
