Do you ever feel like you’ve lost a bit of yourself after becoming a parent?

[babyboy520]

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how much my identity has shifted since becoming a parent. I love my kids more than anything, but sometimes it feels like every part of who I was before has been absorbed into being “Mum.”
I used to have hobbies, time for friends, and even quiet moments just to think — now most days are about routines, snacks, and school runs. When I do get a rare moment alone, I almost don’t know what to do with it. It’s strange how something that brings you so much joy can also make you forget what used to make you feel like you.
I’m not saying I regret anything — it’s just that I’m realizing how easy it is to disappear into the role of caring for everyone else. I’d love to know if anyone else feels this way. How do you reconnect with yourself outside of being a parent?

Firstly, no idea why im up at this hour...oh yes DD in our bed after a bad dream.

How old are your children?

I remember writing a post so similar after having my first born, we went into lock down when he was 18 months so I think I lost myself further during that time.
However, children are now 7 and 4 and id say me and my husband are now back to how we were pre children. Whether that be because we're in a better financial situation or just because the childrens needs change as they get older.

It wasn't until I had my second and returned to work that I finally started to re connect with me. For a period of time I couldn't even tell you what I enjoyed doing or wearing because my world revolved around the children. Now we have a healthy balance, both enjoy our separate time outside family time. We found a new love for exercise which I think helped hugely.

I suppose what im saying is I needed time, once children start getting more independent life gets easier.