So many of us live every breath we breathe for our kids. Our self ceases to exist when we first hold that tiny, screaming baby in our arms. Motherhood becomes our identity and who we are.
But the truth is, there is so much more to you than being little Timmy’s mom. You have dreams, gifts, purpose, and so much more. God called you a mother as part of your story. You are raising His children, which is such a blessing and privilege.
I want to help you. I want to help you proudly own your role as mama but also show you how to use your journal as a space for you to dig into who you are beyond mama.
In this post, we talk about:
- Rediscovering your passions and dreams
- Exploring your unique gifts, values, and purpose
- Reclaiming your sense of self and who God calls you to be
Welcome to The Nikki Project, your go-to hub for unraveling life’s beautiful chaos through faith, journaling, parenting, and efficiency. We’re here to empower and inspire busy mamas like you who are seeking to balance personal growth, motherhood, and faith with grace and intention. Our mission is to help you embrace the imperfections, find joy in the chaos, and create a life that aligns with your values and purpose. Join our community of like-minded mamas to discover the extraordinary in the ordinary and find beauty in the messiness of motherhood– let’s roll.
DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY TERMS OF USE POLICY FOR MORE INFO.
Rediscovering your passions and dreams
Motherhood can be a thankless job, filled with hours and hours of putting everyone’s needs above your own. Often, you put dreams and interests on hold to fulfill your responsibilities as a mother. Please hear this: Fulfilling your duties as mama is a great thing—you were given the blessing of babies! But that doesn’t mean the you beyond mama should cease to exist.
Often, the selflessness of motherhood means you take a backseat with this idea of someday. “Someday, I’ll reach that goal.” “Someday, I’ll workout.” “Someday, I’ll start reading again.” “Someday I’ll learn to paint.” The list can go on and on of the someday hopes and dreams that are diluted as the years pass.
Mindful Moment
Take time to write in your journal about who YOU are beyond the titles and labels you or society have given you. Freely write for 5 minutes about activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
What does that look like?
What does that feel like?
Think about what you enjoyed doing as a kid or the dreams you had when you were growing up. Think about that hobby you started in your early twenties or wish you had started.
Ok, so here is the permission slip. You are allowed to pursue your interests. I’m not sure who needs to hear it, but doing something for you does not make you any less of a mother. Filling your cup so you can pour into others is so important. I am not saying abandon all responsibility with a “you do you” attitude. But lean into ways to find joy and nurture who you are to lead by example to your kids and show up better for them.
Find ways to integrate your interests into your daily life. I have always enjoyed creating and crafting, so we do craft party Friday so that the kids can experience art and use their creativity while I make watercolor cards every week. Or maybe you wake up a little early so you can go for a walk by yourself… or maybe after the kids go to bed, you flip on your favorite cooking show and learn some new recipes to make for your family or a special date night in with your husband.
Exploring your unique gifts, values, and purpose
It can be hard to know who you are. Many of us hide behind a facade as a defense mechanism. We shield ourselves from others knowing us and start losing sight of who we are. Start by working through your strengths, weaknesses, and core beliefs. If you aren’t sure of your strengths and weaknesses, ask those around you for gentle input to help you get started.
There is no one like you. Not another human being on this earth has your same exact DNA or the same exact experiences, gifts, or talents. The expact brand of you is needed in this world, and God put you here on purpose. You are a beautiful being, and you are worthy of love.
Mindful Moment
Grab that journal again and start reflecting on your proudest moments.
What did that look like?
I would encourage you not to link it to your children. All of us would likely link our proudest moments to the days our kids were born. I mean, there is so much joy, pride, and love beyond measure in your children.
But beyond that, what have you done that you are proud of?
What about your challenges– what were they? How did you handle them? What could you have done differently?
What are your values? What are your priorities? Long-term goals? What exists beyond being a mama?
Ok… we know God gave you children and blessed you to be a mama. Not everyone gets that chance, so I am not diminishing its significance. I find great joy in motherhood. But what if His purpose for your life spans far beyond motherhood? What if He is calling you into the unknown… would you follow? You were given unique gifts here on this earth, and He calls you to use them. Consider that… what are you not sharing with the world God gifted you with?
Reclaiming your sense of self and who God calls you to be
I have been the mama who refuses to ask for help because “these are my kids, and they are my responsibility.” I have been the mama who is entirely wrapped up in being a mama, and I’m not even sure who I am beyond that. I have been the mama who downplays the role and wants others to see me as a super mom while secretly drowning. I am working on being the mama who is ultimately raising my kids to leave… to live a life they were meant to, wherever God leads them. Take time to process the emotions as you go. What new perspectives can you gain from those around you or even this blog?
Think about what holds you back. What keeps you in a cycle or pattern where you are lost and don’t know who you are?
Mindful Moment
When you dive into your journal, take time to celebrate your strengths, your accomplishments, and your growth. Be a testament to owning who you are, living authentically and unapologetically in who God has called you to be.
Reframe negative self-talk.
You are a child of God.
Do you understand the beauty of that?
Do you know how much you are loved? How much God cares about you?
He says you are enough,
He says you are worthy,
He says there is nothing you could do to make Him love you any less.
Take time to consider options, decisions, and ideas. Pray about where God wants you to go and the path He is lighting for you. Write about them in your journal.
Save this blog and come back to it. Spend time journaling through the questions. Journaling is a tool for ongoing self-discovery and personal growth. Dive into prayer and seek His wisdom first to pursue your unique gifts and passions while balancing the blessings and joy of motherhood.
I offer a 7-day Journaling Course to help you develop a consistent habit and guided journals to walk you through your Morning Pages.
