Not Just a New Mom

Rediscovering Myself, One Small Step at a Time

Do you ever have that moment where you pause, look at your life, and think, How did I get here? Not in a bad way necessarily, but in a way that makes you realize how much your focus has shifted to everyone and everything else.

That was me recently. Somewhere between the late-night feedings, the endless to-do lists, and the juggling act of trying to keep everything running smoothly, I realized I’d lost touch with myself. Not in a dramatic, existential-crisis kind of way, but in a quiet, subtle way that sneaks up on you. The person I used to be—curious, creative, intentional—felt like she had taken a backseat to all the other roles I play.

And I know I’m not alone in this. Life has a way of pulling us in so many directions that we forget we need to nurture ourselves, too. For a while, I told myself this was just part of being a new mom. That I didn’t have time or energy to focus on me. But here’s what I’ve realized: if I want to show up for the people I care about, I need to show up for myself first.

So I made a plan. It’s not revolutionary or groundbreaking—just a few small habits to help me feel like I’m reconnecting with myself. They’re simple, manageable, and they remind me that even in this busy season of life, I can still make space for the “new me.”

Walking Every Day: 500 Miles in a Year

When I set the goal to walk 500 miles this year, I’ll admit—I hesitated. It sounded like a lot. But then I did the math: it’s about 2 miles a day on weekdays. That’s not overwhelming; that’s achievable. And for me, the goal isn’t about hitting a specific number—it’s about showing up consistently, day after day, for myself.

The way I’ve made it work is simple. Most mornings, I hop on my walking pad before work. I’ll check emails, review my calendar, or map out my day while I walk. It’s multitasking, yes, but it’s also intentional. I’m starting my day in motion, both mentally and physically.

On days when I have a little more time, I’ll take a walk outside. There’s something about fresh air and a quiet moment alone that resets my brain in a way nothing else does. But even when my walks are short, they still feel meaningful. Every step feels like progress—not just toward a number, but toward a better version of myself.

What’s surprised me most is how much this simple habit has shifted my mindset. I feel more focused and less restless. It’s not just about moving my body; it’s about showing myself that even when life is busy, I can still find ways to prioritize me.

Journaling: A Space to Process, Reflect, and Dream

Journaling is another practice I’ve returned to recently, and it’s been transformative. It’s not about writing perfectly or filling pages every day, it’s about creating space to process the jumble of thoughts in my head.

Some mornings I write about what’s on my mind; what’s working, what’s not, and what’s weighing on me. Other times, I focus on gratitude, listing small joys or wins from the day before. And then there are days when I just dream. I write down ideas, goals, or even little things I’d like to try (like learning to bake bread or finally picking up that novel I keep meaning to read).

The act of putting pen to paper forces me to slow down and reflect. It helps me see patterns, recognize what I need, and remind myself of what matters most. Journaling isn’t about solving all my problems, it’s about giving myself permission to pause and just be.

Hydroponics: Growing More Than Herbs

This might seem like an odd one, but I’ve started growing my own herbs using a hydroponics system—and it’s become one of the most grounding parts of my day.

The process itself is simple: a few seeds, some water, and a little bit of care. But watching those tiny green sprouts grow has been unexpectedly rewarding. There’s something deeply satisfying about creating something with your own hands, even if it’s just small pods of herbs and vegetables.

For me, this little garden has become a reminder that growth takes time. It’s a small, quiet act of nurturing that mirrors what I’m trying to do for myself. Every time I check on my herbs, I’m reminded to slow down, notice the small things, and celebrate progress—no matter how small it feels.

Why Small Steps Matter

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this process, it’s that rediscovering yourself doesn’t have to mean big, sweeping changes. It’s about small, intentional actions (like walking, journaling, or nurturing a little garden) that remind you of who you are and who you want to become.

As moms (or just as people with full, demanding lives), it’s easy to put ourselves at the bottom of the list. But we can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time to invest in yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

So here’s what I’d say to anyone who’s feeling a little lost: Start small. Find one thing that feels like it’s just for you, and make it a priority. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be yours.

For me, it’s walking 500 miles, writing in my journal, and growing fresh herbs. For you, it might be something entirely different. But whatever it is, know this: you’re worth the time. You’re worth the effort. And you deserve to feel connected to the person you are becoming.

So here’s to small steps and big growth—and to creating space for the “new you” to bloom.