As a new parent you will find very quickly that you don’t seem to have time for much of what you used to do. Parenting is hard, and there are a lot of sacrifices to make, however, there’s no reason why you cannot continue doing the things you love as a new parent.
Fitness and Sports
This is something that is important to your health, mental well-being and longevity, but is often forsaken for taking up time you no longer have or being too much effort in your newly-exhausted state. And you will be exhausted; when that baby arrives you won’t sleep a proper night for about six months. With that said, the good news about that is you get used to operating on less sleep, you might even find yourself being more productive, and you’ll realise that getting up early in the morning to work out isn’t so bad, in fact it makes you feel better.
If you want to keep up your fitness routine, early mornings are going to be the time you need to set aside for yourself. You can also try home-based activities like yoga or backyard circuit training. There’s a lot you can do with a yoga mat and a few dumbbells or kettlebells. You can try to workout while baby is asleep or have a look at your nearest baby shop for bouncers, rockers & swings.
Mother’s Groups
You can still brunch with friends after having a baby, but you might find joining a mother’s group to be a way to enjoy coffee with some newly made friends while allowing your baby to socialise. Some women hate mother’s groups, and others find them great ways to connect with women over a shared experience that is both scary and exciting.
They are also a great opportunity to get out of the house, and discuss current issues you may be having, because realistically your baby is going to be at the forefront of your mind. People without kids can find too much baby talk to be boring, but for new parents it is extremely important to share concerns and experiences.
Romance
This is generally on people’s minds as they prepare for parenthood.
What happens to the romance? To the date nights, dinners out, movies, cocktail bars, and cosy nights in on the couch. To some extent, you have to get used to the idea that these nights are going to become a luxury, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Like when you give up chocolate or coffee for a while, it tastes so much better when you do get to treat yourself.
If you have parents living close by, you should do your best to arrange fortnightly date nights where Nanna can look after the baby. It’s important to make room for time with your partner. If you don’t have the luxury of parents/trusted and willing babysitters, it’s important to lock in at least one night per week, say Friday night, where you are your partner put baby to bed, cook a nice meal together and play a boardgame or watch a movie together.
Yes, you will have to get up and check on or attend to your baby, and some nights they will need to be nursed or looked after, but more than half the time those nights will be special.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Your Partner
You are in a partnership. Don’t be afraid to ask your husband/wife, boyfriend/girlfriend for time to keep doing the things you love doing. There’s no reason why you can’t do that university course you have been wanting to enroll in after having a baby. Plenty of new parents have done it and are doing it now. All it takes is some cooperation and support from your partner. It’s all about give and take.
Remember That You Are Your Own Person
You’re not just a parent; a mummy, or a daddy, you are also your own person and one that is continuously growing and evolving. Keep time for yourself. Do your own thing, leave baby with your spouse and go out with friends or play the sport you always have. There’s no reason why you can’t still be yourself and enjoy the things you always have. Having a baby only means you need to prioritise.
Involve Your Child In What You Enjoy
There are some things you can continue to do while also involving your child. Like yoga (which you will find your baby excels at), drawing, painting, playing music; almost anything creative is a great way to continue doing what you love while also expanding your baby’s horizons and developing their skills. Plus, it is beautiful bonding time.
Daycare
Many parents feel guilty about sending their child to daycare so that they can go out to lunch with friends, see a movie or get a haircut. But there is no reason to feel guilty. Firstly, daycare is great for your child to build important social skills, and secondly, you are your own person and so need to take the time to do your own thing and interact with adults.
It’s not only possible to continue doing the things you love, but it’s also very important. Make sure you give yourself the chance to continue to be yourself.
