Some Parts of Motherhood Are Hard and Some Are Just… Motherhood

You see it all the time, someone overwhelmed by something that’s just part of the gig. Parenting isn’t easy, but it’s also not meant to be perfect. Some days are hard, some moments test you, but a lot of it? That’s just the life we chose. And honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Let’s be real: parenthood is hard. Like, really hard. There are moments when you’re up all night because your baby won’t stop crying, or your toddler throws a tantrum in the middle of the grocery store, and you’re pretty sure you’re losing your mind. Those moments? Yeah, they’re tough. Everyone gets that.

But then there’s the other side, the parts that aren’t even supposed to be shocking. The “normal hard.” Like, your kid wants attention all day? Welcome to the club. You’re not peeing alone anymore? Yeah, that’s motherhood. You’re tired, overstimulated, haven’t had a hot meal in days? Same.  That’s not an emergency. That’s just the job.

I’ve met so many people who want the title of “parent” without accepting the full-time, messy, sacrificial reality that comes with it. They want the milestone photos, the cute outfits, the compliments about how well their kid is doing, but they’re surprised by the actual work it takes to raise a tiny human.

But here’s the thing: I knew what I was signing up for. I knew I’d lose sleep, give up time, make sacrifices I couldn’t even imagine yet. I didn’t walk into this blind. I chose motherhood with full awareness that it would change me. And that’s why it’s hard for me to watch people step into it with zero understanding of what’s required. It’s why I write on my blog. I want you all to know my truths, hardships and accomplishments! 

And here’s something else I’ve learned. We need to talk about this more. It’s like pregnancy. So many women only find out about the hard, weird, or painful parts after they’re already in the thick of it. We sugarcoat the struggle and then wonder why everyone feels so isolated. We need to be more honest. When you talk to other moms, be real about what you’re feeling because 9 times out of 10, they’ve felt it too. Or they will. And when they do, your honesty might be the thing that makes them feel less alone.

So here’s your reminder: you’re not failing. You’re just parenting. It’s okay if it’s hard. It’s okay if it’s exhausting. This is what we signed up for. And if you’re showing up, even on the messy days, you’re doing it right.