Where I’m from life seems to go by way too fast, but it’s often consumed with long hours of work and the constant hustle bustle of always needing to be doing something. That’s one way to live life, but definitely not the life I’d like to live.
I used to always have things to do all of the time it seemed. I’d be so involved with work full-time and social events, I’d barely have time to myself. Well, now things are quite different. Working part-time from home and getting to raise my kids, having all the time to do things has been great. Is it boring or repetitive some days? Yes it is, but I love this season of life.
One of the things I try to remind myself is that this is now, not forever, and these moments do go by fast. It’s nice to be able to somewhat relax, even though I’m constantly active with my two boys. I love getting to stop and just watch them play, interact and learn. It really is the small things in life that are so special these days. They keep me on my toes and I’m exhausted most days, but it’s been a joy getting to kind of take a step back from the hustle and bustle that I’ve been used to.
I’m not sure if I can ever go back to that busyness of life, the nine to five, the after work engagements and constant social calendar. I definitely love hanging out with friends and family, but life as a stay-at-home mom has been so enjoyable for me. I never thought I’d be one, as it’s always been so ingrained in me to work, work, work and to keep chasing my dreams. Success is from committing those long hours to your work so you get that big promotion and reach the top of your career right? Wrong. Success I have learned over time is how you define it. Success to me is when you feel happiness in the day to day and what you are doing in your life. It’s being able to surround yourself with those you love. Love, happiness and success go hand in hand I believe. It’s also of course being in good health.
Luckily, I feel very successful in my life right now. I feel like I’ve won the lottery some days. Is it lonely and hard sometimes being a stay-at-home mom? Absolutely, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’ve dreamed of having those quiet days. Those rainy days when you stay in and plan activities for the kids, and may consider it to be a boring day. It’s awesome. I love boring days sometimes! Switching from having had a busy and intense career most of my life, constantly working to be better and committing long hours behind the desk to this has been nice. I love to work, don’t get me wrong, but this kind of work is my favourite. Raising my kids, teaching them, watching them learn and grow, cooking, cleaning, growing vegetables and fruit in the garden, along with my passion of writing part-time for you all has been great. I feel so lucky to get to have the best of both worlds.
So, in the quietness of life, it’s okay to sit back, watch and enjoy those moments, because they don’t last forever. The busyness of life catches up eventually, and with kids too. Those day-long school days, extra curricular activities and the errands of every day life can be a lot, so it’s important to catch your breath and relax. Stop and smell the roses as the saying goes.