Parenthood has a way of flipping your world upside down, right? The overwhelming love and responsibility of having children can make it difficult to remember who you were before they arrived. It’s easy to feel consumed by motherhood, where your identity seems to vanish, leaving you wondering where the “you” that existed before has gone. For many moms, those pre-motherhood passions fade into the background, becoming barely recognizable in the rearview mirror.

But here’s the good news: while finding yourself after motherhood can be challenging, it’s not impossible. Let’s explore why so many moms feel like they’re struggling with an identity crisis and how you can begin the journey back to rediscovering yourself if you feel the same way.

Why do moms lose their identity?

Let’s be real – bringing a child into the world is a life-altering experience. Everything changes, from your home life to your schedule and relationships. Suddenly, time seems to fly or drag on, leaving you wondering if you’ve accomplished anything. The relationship with your partner likely feels different, too – exhaustion isn’t exactly a recipe for romance. Between endless loads of laundry and sleep-deprived nights, personal time gets pushed to the back burner.

Unsurprisingly, many moms report feeling like they’ve lost their identity. A recent survey found that 96% of women feel expected to put themselves last (The State of Invisibility Research, peanut.com). This pressure to self-sacrifice can lead to “depleted mother syndrome” or, more simply, mom burnout.

It’s time to reclaim your identity.

Let’s take a moment to talk about burnout. This invisible load is something many moms carry, and it can weigh you down without you even realizing it. But reclaiming your identity means breaking free from this load so that you can step into your full, vibrant self – the mom and the person you are beyond that role. The goal? Bring all parts of yourself together and embrace your strength in motherhood and your passions outside of it.

If you’re feeling the weight of burnout, it’s time to hit the reset button. You may not have heard the term “Depleted Mother Syndrome” before, but it describes the physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that many moms experience. Common signs include increased irritability, going through the motions without being present, and resenting your partner. You may even grieve parts of yourself that feel lost.

But here’s the good news – you can find your way back. Many moms have navigated these same challenges and come out stronger. Prioritizing self-care, finding your passion, seeking support, building a community, and incorporating exercise into your routine can all help you reconnect with yourself.