When I found out I was going to be a mom, excitement flooded in — but so did fear.
Questions like “Will I be a good mom?” or “Am I ready for this responsibility?” were constant companions. The shift from focusing solely on yourself to planning a life around a tiny human can feel overwhelming, but it also brings purpose and clarity.
Letting Go of Independence
One of the biggest adjustments was relinquishing the independence I had during my single life.

Back then, my time was my own — I could stay out late, travel on a whim, or sleep in on weekends. Motherhood, however, introduced me to a new kind of schedule dictated by feedings, diaper changes, and bedtime routines.
Though I sometimes missed the freedom, I also found fulfillment in the structure motherhood brought. It grounded me, helping me prioritize what truly mattered.
The Emotional Highs and Lows
Becoming a mom is an emotional rollercoaster. The highs are euphoric — your baby’s first smile, holding them close or seeing their tiny hands wrap around your finger.
But the lows can be just as intense — sleepless nights, the exhaustion of trying to do everything perfectly, and moments of self-doubt. I often questioned myself:
“Am I enough?” or “Am I doing this right?”
It took time, but I learned to let go of the unrealistic expectations I placed on myself. The most important lesson? There’s no such thing as a perfect mom—there’s only your best, and that’s enough.
Finding a New Identity
Motherhood isn’t just about taking care of your child; it’s also about rediscovering yourself. You’re no longer just an individual—you’re also someone’s mom. While this can feel like a loss of identity at times, it’s also an opportunity to grow.
For me, this meant learning how to balance who I was before becoming a mom with who I was becoming. I started to see motherhood not as an end to my independence but as an evolution of it.
The Importance of Support
Whether you're navigating this journey as a single mom or with a partner, support is essential. I found strength in friends, family, and online communities of moms who shared their experiences.
For moms embarking on this journey, I encourage you to surround yourself with people who uplift you. It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to need time to adjust.
Looking Back with Gratitude
Now, when I reflect on my journey from single life to motherhood, I see it as a period of profound growth. It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth every sleepless night, every tear, and every moment of self-doubt.
Motherhood is a rollercoaster of emotions, but it’s also a testament to love, resilience, and the incredible capacity of the human heart.
To every mom navigating this transition: give yourself grace. Motherhood is a journey of learning, adapting, and growing.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but remember, the love you’re pouring into your child is immeasurable. The rollercoaster might be wild, but the view from the top is breathtaking.
By Fathi Aidiya Farisa